VP180

VP180 - 04/30/1003:22 PM

Anyone plan on pre-ordering this thing? It is claimed to have the same frequency response as the m80's. But, there aren't any specs about the dimensions. It looks like they just took the M80 and turned it on its side and reorganized the drivers, so it should have about the same dimensions as the m80's though I'm guessing. I'll have to see how much I can trade my vp150 in for.

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1003:25 PM

I'm thinking hard about it but I need to get my HT receiver back from service. Currently using a stereo receiver so not much love for the center channel...

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1003:28 PM

Originally Posted By: nickboros

Anyone plan on pre-ordering this thing? It is claimed to have the same frequency response as the m80's. But, there aren't any specs about the dimensions. It looks like they just took the M80 and turned it on its side and reorganized the drivers, so it should have about the same dimensions as the m80's though I'm guessing. I'll have to see how much I can trade my vp150 in for.

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1004:11 PM

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1004:44 PM

There's no page for it; it's currently only available through the owner's club. The specs I have seen are largely identical to the M80s, although the crossover points listed are different than the M80's listed ones. Here's what I've got:

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1005:55 PM

If the bottom *isn't* flat, then the stand must also have an angle on it to match the taper on the cabinet. There would certainly be people who would want it firing straight out, where others might want some angle to get the best performance. My guess, and that's all it is, would be a taper on one side equal to or similar to the inclusive angle on the M80.

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1005:58 PM

Rubber doorstops!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1006:04 PM

Originally Posted By: Adrian

If the bottom *isn't* flat, then the stand must also have an angle on it to match the taper on the cabinet. There would certainly be people who would want it firing straight out, where others might want some angle to get the best performance. My guess, and that's all it is, would be a taper on one side equal to or similar to the inclusive angle on the M80.

That would be my guess too. Hard to tell from the pic but it does look flat on the bottom, assuming the stands aren't tapered (and I don't think they will be).

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1006:06 PM

OK, I just ordered one with stands. I didn't have much choice after whining for the last two years that Axiom should make an M60-based VP250.

I do think the new speaker deserves a higher number than VP180, should be VP350 at the very least

I still feel a twinge of guilt for not buying an EP350v3 since I talked about *that* one so much that Amie started cutting me off in mid-sentence whenever conversation headed in that direction. Then again I already have a big-ass subwoofer but I sure don't have anything like this.

Did anyone else check the date when they first saw the picture to make sure it wasn't an April Fools joke ?

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1011:08 PM

Re: VP180 - 04/30/1011:20 PM

Quote:

No, we all lobbied for that, but were overruled by the owner and CEO of the company.

Oh yeah ? What's *his* post count ?

Micah has a good point though - VP180 has 6 drivers vs 5 for VP150 so I guess VP180 does make a lot of sense. The new speaker just seems so much more... substantial than the model number would suggest.

I wonder what Ian had in mind for the *real* VP800 when he nixed that name for this speaker ?

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1009:16 AM

Originally Posted By: nickboros

Anyone plan on pre-ordering this thing? It is claimed to have the same frequency response as the m80's. But, there aren't any specs about the dimensions. It looks like they just took the M80 and turned it on its side and reorganized the drivers, so it should have about the same dimensions as the m80's though I'm guessing. I'll have to see how much I can trade my vp150 in for.

- Nick

I'm going to look and see if a trade is possible as well. Also need to check to see if the shelf above the TV will handle 56 pounds. Maybe I could test that with the 7 year old

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1009:31 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1009:33 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1009:39 AM

I'm going to take CV's request one step further... I want someone to buy 7 of these to use in every position of a 7.1 set-up. Only I'm not going to make any bones about it.... Dean, you get the job. Your researching skills have earned you this task. I expect a full report by weeks end. Get to it man!

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1010:02 AM

I must say, upon first seeing this thread yesterday I really had no interest what-so-ever in switching from my current VP150 over to this monster as I've always been quite pleased with the performance out of my center as is. I've heard many people complain that voices sound thin and/or as if talking through a tin can, but I've never experienced this phenomenon personally. So I really didn't think I needed to pay any amount of money for one extra driver when I'm already happy.

But then my curiosity started to grow....

Upon further reflection I started to wonder what my music would sound like (since I listen in 5.1 now-a-days) with the extra bass and all from the two bigger drivers in this unit. And now I'm on the fence, so I was wondering what Axiom is offering in exchange for sending your VP150 back in and ordering one of these? If the difference isn't all that much, then perhaps I'll consider it more seriously.

...oh who am I kidding? If I'm already 'on the fence' on day two, by Monday I'll probably be packing the VP150 up and sending it back already!!!

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1010:07 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1010:14 AM

Register my speakers? Why, so that 'Big Brother' can keep their eye on me, watching my every move, taxing me for my 'frivolous speaker purchase' and what not? I think NOT!!!

Nah I'd rather hide in the shadows, only coming out long enough to bait you 'sheep' into posting up pictures and other owners club information all the while eating my 'tax free' popcorn and laughing devilishly, MU HU HA HAHAHAHA HAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA AH HA ha HAHA ha!!!!!!

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1010:30 AM

The biggest difference is not only the size but now the center speaker is full range compared to the 150. Set this baby to large! With this new center with M80 mains these puppies are just begging for a professional style amp to be powered by or even the Axiom A1400-8/A1400-3.

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1011:19 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1011:21 AM

I'm sure the idea has been around for a while. As people started asking for one or talking about a larger centre to go with the M60/80s, maybe Ian figured the timing was right to bring it to fruition.

I think you're right. The first time I brought it up I was told there were no plans for a new/bigger centre speaker. Eventually enough people must've expressed interest, though, because I asked again later and was dangled the proverbial carrot

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1012:02 PM

Can one assume that this new centre channel will require two Full Metal Brackets for wall mounting?

I am intrigued and likely would have bought it years back, but with a good soundstage using the VP150 at present, i think i'll pass, for now.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1012:23 PM

Originally Posted By: MarkSJohnson

On top of my head, no.

Over the rest of my body..... I make Robin Williams look like an Olympic swimmer.

(well, no... not true on any count. But I thought the snappy comeback was worth the lie!)

It was!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1012:27 PM

Originally Posted By: chesseroo

Can one assume that this new centre channel will require two Full Metal Brackets for wall mounting?

I am intrigued and likely would have bought it years back, but with a good soundstage using the VP150 at present, i think i'll pass, for now.

I doubt it has the screw/mount holes on the back. I don't think they had that in mind, especially since the ports are at the back. All that aside, yes, I would definitely use at least two FMB's to try and mount that sucker (but I still don't recommend it).

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1001:23 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1001:25 PM

No, my job is to sit on the couch and say, "Higher. . no lower. . .now a little to the left. . .no, no go back! Okay, higher. . . almost. . .no, lower and to the right. . . .wow, I can't get over how heavy that speaker looks."

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1006:01 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/01/1006:21 PM

I've been very happy with our VP150, matter of fact I was going to get another just about the time the M80 based center started getting talked about on the forums and decided to hold off until a definite word came out regarding the M80 based center. I plan on running the VP150 and the VP180 together ... and now I can kick myself in the butt for not getting a couple of the Outlaw 2200's whenever they were on sale just a week or so back.

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1010:39 AM

I wonder what Ian had in mind for the *real* VP800 when he nixed that name for this speaker ?

My guess would be that it would be too easily confused (typo wise) with the EP800. Can you imagine trying to put that over your TV??

Scott

One over and one under. So, a401classic, are we talking Buick nailhead or AMC?

The VP 150 doesn't suck, it just isn't timbre matched to the M80's. When I was playing around with my T2's, I noticed that they were a much better match to the VP150 than the M80's were. Gonna have to kick this one around for a bit. I really don't need a new center channel, but upgradeitis pulls hard on me.... sigh!

On the car front, we're talking AMC, a Rambler, specifically. 1964 770 Classic 2 door sitting in the garage waiting for serious funding to do the resto. I've got a 0.020 over 401 with a stroked crank now displacing 426 ci short block ready to go. I'll be twin turbo charged, so no shortage of power.

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1006:09 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1006:21 PM

i called and asked, but was told that there will not be a trade up option for the vp150->vp180... that kind of leaves me in a quandary, i don't need 2 center channels... at least not for pre-orders... does anyone have any information to the contrary?

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1009:06 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1009:25 PM

Micah, when two speakers are run in parallel the resulting impedance is such that its reciprocal is the sum of the reciprocals of the impedances of the two speakers. Using 6 and 4 ohms, this works out to 1/6+1/4=1/X, 2/12+3/12=1/X, 5/12=1/X, 5X=12, X=2.4ohms.

Keep in mind that the nominal impedance ratings of speakers don't represent their impedance over their entire range(the 4ohm rating on the M80s is a notable example)and that 2.4ohm result would only apply at a frequency where the speaker impedances were in fact 6 and 4 ohms. Also note that a low impedance doesn't necessarily cause a problem if the power used at the low impedance frequency wasn't high enough to require an excessively high current.

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1009:47 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1010:03 PM

Micah, i have Krell amps and I am not sure if i want to run those 2 speakers in parallel.. I don't think that there are any recievers that could power a pv150- and vp180 in parallel safely.. If you have a power amp you might be able to get away with it, but you will need a pretty strong amp... my amp's are rated at 250W at 8ohms, and 500W at 4 ohms.. and if i put a 2 ohm load they would be making 1000W, but Krell has not designed them to be stable at 2 ohms though, so i don't know that i want to push them....

Re: VP180 - 05/02/1010:05 PM

not with only 1 set of terminals wild, to get a series connection you would have to have 2 sets of terminals. one in and one out, if you will... when you wire a sub in series, you use one set of connections, then on the other side of the speaker you use another wire to a different speakers. making the current go though the first speaker, then to the second one... there is no way of doing that with the way the cabinets are designed from axiom that i am aware of.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1009:40 AM

I'd kind of like to replace my IWOW VP100 for an IWON VP150 to see if I'd like it any better.

Give Axiom a call, Cat. I'm sure you could try out the 150, if you prefer it you could probably trade up, or if not, send it back under the 30 days return policy. Check with Peter Bell, maybe.

Yeah, that's probably the only way. I'm going to have to wait until I have some spare cash though. I've got too many projects going on right now with the house. Needing a new dishwasher and new floors, etc.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1010:47 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1010:48 AM

While I'm interested in it my biggest concern is the rear porting. I would have to cut a hole into my wall and build a shelf for it (wouldn't look right on stands in my set-up). Therefore the ports would empty out into the closet. And I've already seen (or 'heard' rather) the effects this had on my EP800, it sucked the performance right out of it. So that would pretty much negate any extra bass I'd be hoping to get out of it.

Then I figured I'd wait around until the on-wall version came out. But of course the design of the on-walls usually means less bass performance as well. At least that's the case for the on-wall M22's, maybe not the on-wall M80's. I guess IF they design the on-wall VP180 similar to that of the on-wall M80, with the port out the front and all, then perhaps it would be something I could consider.

But I'm afraid my set-up doesn't allow for it otherwise. I'm sort of hesitant to hang that big massive thing from my ceiling! If my VP150 ever fell from the ceiling it would definately put a nice goose egg on my head. If the VP180 ever fell it would crush any of our dogs, and most likely break my neck!

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:18 AM

Like has already been said, "be careful what you wish for".

I was one of the people that was clamoring for a bigger center channel but I hardly expected one the approximate size of Bulgaria!I already have M80s in my L/R set-up but as a center channel my placement options are practically NIL.

Compared to what is available and from a somewhat more flexible placement standpoint, I thought of a CC more along the lines of having 2-6.5 woofers, 1- 5 mid and 1-tweeter. I have a large screen RP CRT that is made out of 3/4 inch MDF that can handle a center channel's weight easily in the 30-35 pound range, but 56 lbs? I don't have the room "in front" of the monitor and in experimenting I have never liked the sound there anyway. I prefer the speaker elevated.

I am sure the guys at Axiom spent many hours listening and perfecting its design , but for many, unfortunately, it is just TOO BIG!

Incidentally, does anyone know if this speaker is magnetically shielded?

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:29 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:31 AM

There are still lots of options for those of you that think this is too big. Previously, there were not many options for those that wanted an "ultimate" center channel specifically designed to be placed horizontally.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:34 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:39 AM

I am surprised it is still rear ported I would have thought a front port, well several small or one large elipitcal port on the front would have been designed as most center channels sit in a shelving system of somekind. I know something this big would most likely be out in the open, but still a fron port would have opened more possibilities. I see it now, the in-cabinet version will be front ported

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:50 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1012:47 PM

Originally Posted By: JohnK

Micah, when two speakers are run in parallel the resulting impedance is such that its reciprocal is the sum of the reciprocals of the impedances of the two speakers. Using 6 and 4 ohms, this works out to 1/6+1/4=1/X, 2/12+3/12=1/X, 5/12=1/X, 5X=12, X=2.4ohms.

Keep in mind that the nominal impedance ratings of speakers don't represent their impedance over their entire range(the 4ohm rating on the M80s is a notable example)and that 2.4ohm result would only apply at a frequency where the speaker impedances were in fact 6 and 4 ohms. Also note that a low impedance doesn't necessarily cause a problem if the power used at the low impedance frequency wasn't high enough to require an excessively high current.

John –

What do you think about running the VP180 below the screen and a VP150 above the screen? I’m wondering if that would be a good idea or not. I’m thinking not, but curious nonetheless.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1012:56 PM

Hi michael_d,

I think not as well, although I did not do listening tests to that combination while I was up at Axiom.

One of my Axiom colleagues, JC (Jean-Claude), has a dedicated home theater room and will try that combo once he has a sample of the VP180. He currently uses two VP150s, one above and one below his projection screen.

Sadly, I don't have room for a VP180 in my apartment. I'll have to think about buying a house so I can accommodate a VP180!

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1002:25 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1003:42 PM

Originally Posted By: alan

Hi michael_d,

I think not as well, although I did not do listening tests to that combination while I was up at Axiom.

One of my Axiom colleagues, JC (Jean-Claude), has a dedicated home theater room and will try that combo once he has a sample of the VP180. He currently uses two VP150s, one above and one below his projection screen.

Sadly, I don't have room for a VP180 in my apartment. I'll have to think about buying a house so I can accommodate a VP180!

Regards,Alan

Please keep me informed after JC has a chance to try this combo.

I am very happy with my current center set up (lower twin M22's) and an upper VP150. I will not give up the upper / lower combination.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1003:46 PM

The only way you could wire a VP-150 and VP-180 in series using the current hardware is to. Hook up the (+) from the amp to the first speakers (+) and use a jumper from the (-) of the first speaker to the (+) of the second speaker, then plug the (-) wire from the amp to the (-) of the second speaker.

it wouldn't be that complicated, but you would need your power wires to be 2 separate pieces of wire.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1004:04 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1004:11 PM

The serial interaction of the impedance of two complex networks such as speaker systems is bad enough when they have the same curve. Two dissimilar speakers will have very unpredictable (well, very hard to compute) results.

When a cross-over network is being designed for a speaker, the sensitivity of each driver is taken into account, to achieve a linear response when everything is combined. It's fine to wire two fixed resisters in series, you just add up their resistance and the sum is also fixed. But that's not how a loud speaker system works. You'll end up with a non-linear response with areas of higher impedance stacking up higher than the lows.

It's then obvious how much worse it would be with two different speakers interacting with each other.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1008:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1009:35 PM

Mike, I don't have much of significance to add on that point. Since your centers above and below the screen already are anchoring the center channel material to the screen pretty well, there wouldn't appear to be room for improvement in that regard. Since the M22s are quite similar to the M80(and presumably VP180)above about 90Hz, there might be little overall sonic difference either.

Seeing Alan's reply which mentioned listening tests on various combinations, I'll ask about a test I wondered about. My thought on seeing the VP180 was to stand the poor thing upright in a more manly posture and it might perform even better. Were two upright VP180s compared with the M80s as mains, and what benefits/detriments were noticed if this was done?

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1009:37 PM

I guess the crossover point of the VP180 will be the same as the mains?

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1010:26 PM

The internal crossovers for the VP180 are 150Hz and 2.7Khz compared to 160Hz and 2.3Khz for the M80. If you mean the crossover point to the sub then, yes, I would imagine it being the same or similar to the mains.

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:54 PM

Is the angle of the speaker sides the same as the M80s or will there be one flat side and, for lack of a better word,and a sloped side. I also have also been waiting for this speaker but will have to modify my stand to get it to fit under the Elite.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/03/1011:58 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1012:24 AM

I am playing with 1 inch more of clearance needed when using a template I made of the M80 shape. I wonder if having one flat side would let me slide the speaker back enough so I wouldn't have to reconfigure my stand. MMMM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1001:40 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1001:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1001:44 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1001:50 PM

No no, don't worry, we all do trig problems in our heads just for fun, you guys are not alone.

In fact last night at the sports bar I was at watching LeBron get his ass kicked all over the court, drinking beers with my buddies, flirting with the waitresses and what not, I was figuring out approach vortex's, and arch curve logorithms in my head the entire time.

(Ok, you got me... I probably don't even know the correct terms to use to even ACT like a geek do I? Why can't I be cool like you guys?)

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1001:51 PM

Geometry in high school was the only class where I ever blew the grade curve so badly that the next person, who had a 98% cumulative score, was knocked down to a B, because of all the extra credit questions I got correct on each test during the year.

After much protest from the other students, the teacher tossed me as an outlier.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:03 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:06 PM

Hi JohnK,

No, the listening test I performed was with the VP180 in its proper horizontal orientation against a pair of M80 towers flanking the VP180 fed with a summed mono signal. From the central listening position, I was comparing two mono signals, one from the VP180 versus a phantom centered mono signal from the pair of M80 towers.

I ranked the VP180 with the same score as I gave the two upright M80 towers and also remarked ("tough test: not exactly alike but similarly excellent"). Other comments included: "Very deep extended bass, smooth natural vocals without sibilance, excellent kick drum and acoustic bass, and a spacious, open quality on big orchestral/choral works."

I have previously never ranked a center channel speaker with such a high score as I gave the VP180.

Partway into the test, I realized I was listening to mono, but that didn't tell me much, because I'd been doing days of listening, including some competitors' speakers.

I was thrilled after the test when we looked at the scores and pulled back the curtain to reveal the VP180 and the two M80 towers at each side.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:17 PM

Originally Posted By: ClubNeon

Today, at work, I'm a CD duplicator. Just feeding blanks into the drive when the previous finishes burning.

I guess if you haven't seen 'Good Will Hunting' then it may have seemed like I was bashing you. In fact I was comparing you to the first character ever portrayed in a movie (that I can recall anyways) as an ubber cool math whiz. After watching that movie I can remember wishing I was a mathematical genius who possessed the ultra cool skills he had.

It made me appreciate a mind that works like that. Even if in real life those guys don't usually end up dating Minnie Driver.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:24 PM

Originally Posted By: alan

Hi JohnK,

No, the listening test I performed was with the VP180 in its proper horizontal orientation against a pair of M80 towers flanking the VP180 fed with a summed mono signal. From the central listening position, I was comparing two mono signals, one from the VP180 versus a phantom centered mono signal from the pair of M80 towers.

I ranked the VP180 with the same score as I gave the two upright M80 towers and also remarked ("tough test: not exactly alike but similarly excellent"). Other comments included: "Very deep extended bass, smooth natural vocals without sibilance, excellent kick drum and acoustic bass, and a spacious, open quality on big orchestral/choral works."

I have previously never ranked a center channel speaker with such a high score as I gave the VP180.

Partway into the test, I realized I was listening to mono, but that didn't tell me much, because I'd been doing days of listening, including some competitors' speakers.

I was thrilled after the test when we looked at the scores and pulled back the curtain to reveal the VP180 and the two M80 towers at each side.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:27 PM

I'd been doing days of listening, including some competitors' speakers...

What an incredibly cool job you have. I'm curious, and please be frank with us, while doing these blind tests do some of the competitors' come away with higher scores very often?

Don't worry, my next question isn't going to be, "so who sounds better than Axiom"? Lol, I just figure if Axiom is developing a certain speaker, and you're doing blind tests with it against some of your direct competition (obviously you're not going to include those competitors that you are not in competition with. Companies that color the audio signal such as Bose and what not...) and it's coming in under the competition, then that gives the designers and engineers that much more incentive to find ways to bring the test scores up so that they at least match if not exceed the scores of the speakers they are put up against.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:34 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1002:47 PM

I figured it was a reference to Good Will Hunting, it's just been a while since I've seen the film, and maybe the character didn't make as large of an impression on me.

Lol, well it certainly did on me!

Funny story, growing up I was always really good at math until I hit high school. By the time I took geometry I was way more interested in looking at the girls in class than paying attention to the teacher. That combined with my pitiful excuse for a memory really doomed my mathematical future. All those damn formula's we were expected to remember.... pffffffft, forget it, I could never remember the difference between the FOIL method and a stinking logorithm. From then on I concentrated on things like creative writing, art, and even history (hated history with a passion up till high school, then I got into a history class with a teacher named Mr. Pendley, he changed the way I looked at history. He made it so much fun to learn history that I couldn't get enough of it, even bought history books to study on my own time... a great teacher has the ability to completely change a students outlook).

Then I went and saw 'Good Will Hunting'.... good God I was soooo fired up after seeing that movie I wanted to be a math whiz too! So I immediately enrolled in like 3 math courses down at I.U. East. I was so determined to become good at math it wasn't even funny. The head of steam I'd built up carried me about 3 weeks into the semester... at which time I had become so bored I realized that it truely takes a different mind than the one I have to be interested in math. I couldn't do it, it just wasn't me. Math just isn't my bag of weed I guess.

I still do admire those who are really good at math though. We're all just wired differently I guess. I have an artistic mind. I was one of the top three or four art students in my high school. And I can remember many of my drawings hanging up in the display cases while other students and even other artists asking me, "how did you do that"???

And yes it really is like Matt Damon discribes it in 'Good Will Hunting', when it came to art I didn't even have to try very hard, I just put my pencil on the paper and it came out. It was easy. If it weren't for my being color blind I definately would have pursued a profession in the art world somewhere, because then I wouldn't have had to work for a living, it was way too easy to be considered work. And I guess for those who have a mathematical mind, it's the same way... math just 'makes sense' to them.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1004:38 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1009:10 PM

Yeah Peter, and I leave the trig to my trusty pocket calculator: inverse tan 2.04/16.36=7.108 degrees. Taking the front/top bevel into account would probably make it more like 10 degrees. Wonder if Ian spent sleepless nights over the optimal slope.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1009:31 PM

Alan, thanks for the reply. I understood from your comments in the Owners Club Newsletter that the key blind test had been with the horizontal VP180 compared with flanking vertical M80s, but I was wondering if the excellence of its performance had led to further tests in different orientations. For example, I recall your testing of vertical VP150s as possible candidates to be used as mains, and thought that a similar investigation might be appropriate for the VP180. A prospective purchaser might wonder, since the price will be the same and size is essentially the same, whether it would be to his advantage to buy two VP180s for use as vertical mains as compared to two M80s.

One possible advantage is suggested by Paul Barton's comments relating to a greater vertical spread between woofers leading to a spreading of the floor bounce effects, with less of a notch in the upper bass response.

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1010:22 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/04/1010:25 PM

HTGEEK, there are no *sub* woofers in this centre, only woofers, mid woofers and of course tweets. They are all powered externally. I'm not sure if Alan did any listening tests with the M60s or not, maybe he can elaborate on that. Presumably, the centre would work well with M60s just as it would the M80s.

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1002:11 AM

Gentlemen, The angle as measured from the rear vertical is 82.57 degrees. I have placed an order and now must proceed in modifying my entertainment stand as soon as I find my Official Homer Simpsontool kit!

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1009:53 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1011:03 AM

The VP180 would be an excellent timbral match to the M60s, and, for that matter, to the M22s.

No, John, I didnt do any tests with the VP180 in a vertical orientation. Andrew Welker and Ian had a series of tests planned.

Micah, since I joined Axiom (2002), we have never had a competitor's speaker outscore an Axiom. There have been a couple, sometimes much more expensive, that received the "similarly good" ratings, and some that were fairly awful. I recall one, a smaller tower speaker in the same price range as Axiom's M60, and with a pretty piano-black finish, which when Ian did the blind test and the results were revealed, he remarked: "If I'd designed a speaker that bad, I'd go out into the woods and shoot myself!"

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1012:54 PM

Quote:

I bet you wouldn't be as open to or smiling about such comments/criticisms or opinions made towards Axiom speakers.

I find this recent trend of second-guessing praise for and/or general support of Axiom and its product extremely curious. Is it really that surprising that I tend to see things Axiom's way? Their design philosophy and their finished products speak to me. I am not too arrogant to realize that this is not the case for everyone. So no, if somebody thought Ian's speakers were so bad that they recommended he put himself out of his misery, then I'd just shrug and continue to enjoy my Axioms.

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1003:57 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1006:12 PM

Originally Posted By: pmbuko

Quote:

I bet you wouldn't be as open to or smiling about such comments/criticisms or opinions made towards Axiom speakers.

I find this recent trend of second-guessing praise for and/or general support of Axiom and its product extremely curious. Is it really that surprising that I tend to see things Axiom's way? Their design philosophy and their finished products speak to me. I am not too arrogant to realize that this is not the case for everyone. So no, if somebody thought Ian's speakers were so bad that they recommended he put himself out of his misery, then I'd just shrug and continue to enjoy my Axioms.

I agree wholeheartedly with Peter's point here. If we didn't like the speakers and philosophy, we wouldn't be here. Surprise?

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1008:02 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/05/1009:44 PM

Dr. House if Alan had revealed the name of the 'pretty piano black' speaker in question, then perhaps I could agree with your statement. But seeing as he was a gentleman about the situation and left it anonomous, then I see no harm in the joke at all. In fact I find it quite humorous.

You have to realize that Ian takes all this stuff very seriously... DEAD seriously to be exact. So when he auditions a speaker costing more than his own brand, and it performs horribly, I don't blame him at all for feeling that way.

I don't know Ian personally mind you, but I get the impression he really would be mortfied if his products performed poorly.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1011:07 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1011:09 AM

Well, after about 30 mins of listening (without yet re-adjusting Audyssy for channel levels) whoever said Axiom may have missed the mark with this one is VERY wrong. This is not only a home-run, it's a grand slam! Right off the bat, I had to adjust my center level from +2 db to 0 db (same levels as my M80s now). I also brought my center crossover down to 60 Hz to match my mains. The sound is FULL and RICH, and so far to me sounds almost JUST like an M80. When I moved from the center seat to the left and right seats, the vocals still sounded like they were coming from the center (with my VP150, I would tend to lose localization when I moved off-center).

I'm giddy right now!

I just wanted to take a couple of mins to share some pix with you guys, but now I am going back to calibrate the system and really give it some serious listening time.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1012:07 PM

Looks great Steve. I can't wait till I can get one for myself.

I am kind of wondering why Axiom didn't make this 10 years ago when the rest of the speaker line up was first brought out. It seems like a no brainer(20/20 hindsight and all that) to have made it specifically to go with the floorstanders, while the VP150/VP100 are a near perfect match for the bookshelf speakers, in particular the M2/M22.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1012:12 PM

Thanks guys! (Tom - I should have never used the sense of scale term! The screen is 126" diagonal)

I took a break to let you know that the Audyssey setup came back with recommending the center at 0db, and the M80s at +1.5db. It chose all front speakers (mains and center) as large, with a 40Hz XO frequency (100Hz for the QS8s). I gave it a go for a couple of songs, and it's was like taking cotton out of my ears. The bass is much tighter than before, and the vocals are stunning. I do not run the system with Audyssey (I always choose no room eq), but I use it to easily set my levels and XO points.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1012:15 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1012:21 PM

Originally Posted By: jakewash

I am kind of wondering why Axiom didn't make this 10 years ago when the rest of the speaker line up was first brought out. It seems like a no brainer(20/20 hindsight and all that) to have made it specifically to go with the floorstanders, while the VP150/VP100 are a near perfect match for the bookshelf speakers, in particular the M2/M22.

Most good ideas seem bizarre when first suggested but obvious in hindsight

The system looks great; it's funny how the VP180 doesn't really seem that big once you put it together with screen & mains.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1012:56 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1001:03 PM

Hi Steve,

I'm really pleased you are as excited ("giddy" even) with the new VP180 as I was after the blind listening tests and the curtain was pulled back. I was absolutely thrilled that Axiom now has a no-compromise truly excellent center channel speaker.

You are correct: the VP180 sounds almost exactly like a the vertical M80. I wrote down on the blind rating sheet: "Not exactly alike in sound quality but similarly excellent."

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1001:18 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:02 PM

That is one great looking theater! Enjoy!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:04 PM

Originally Posted By: SRoode

Well, after about 30 mins of listening (without yet re-adjusting Audyssy for channel levels) whoever said Axiom may have missed the mark with this one is VERY wrong. This is not only a home-run, it's a grand slam! Right off the bat, I had to adjust my center level from +2 db to 0 db (same levels as my M80s now). I also brought my center crossover down to 60 Hz to match my mains. The sound is FULL and RICH, and so far to me sounds almost JUST like an M80. When I moved from the center seat to the left and right seats, the vocals still sounded like they were coming from the center (with my VP150, I would tend to lose localization when I moved off-center).

I'm giddy right now!

I just wanted to take a couple of mins to share some pix with you guys, but now I am going back to calibrate the system and really give it some serious listening time.

Wow, go away for a bit and miss all the fun! The speaker and your setup look spectacular, and I'm sure the sound is even better. Enjoy!!

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:06 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:39 PM

Wow, I don't even know where to begin...

Do I start with a company like Axiom and a true pioneer like Ian to always, and I really mean always, to be there and discuss what they really love and produce a first of it's kind product? It's truly amazing to see this kind of devotion from a company to it's consumers. A nobody like myself had a direct line to the owner of the company, and we had interesting and fun discussions about the speaker as Axiom went through their development process.

I could also start with gentlemen like Alan. Always there to give all of his experience to us and help us understand the true science of sound. So much insight, and so much humor. It always seeems that every post is a little gem.

I could, and really must, mention Noreen. I did not find out until after the speaker arrived today, that my wife and Noreen were in contact and my wife asked Noreen if Ian would be generous enough to sign my speaker because I respect him so much. My wife said that Noreen was so excited about it! When I saw the signature on my speaker, I started to tear up... I really did. I had no idea this was coming here today, and it's one of the best surprises I have ever had in my life.

In the end, I really have to say thank you to Axiom, but more specifically Ian in particular. This is merely a modification (moving the sticks as Ian so appropriately stated) of his spectacular M80 design. The speaker is truly a work of art, and blends in seamlessly with the M80s. If I were Ian, I would be so proud right now! I wanted to take a moment to thank Ian for his skills, patience, forsight, and dedication. I really do feel (more than ever) that I am part of a family here.

I have sooooo much to say about this new speaker. You would not think a center channel would have so much of an impact in music and movie listening, but it REALLY does. I know there are doubters out there, and a lot of folks think this is a board full of fanboys. I have always been honest, and when things did not work out, I told everyone of my problems (by the way, in every case, Axiom ALWAYS came through). Just trust me on this one... This is a world class center channel. Even my wife (who started tearing up when I was tearing up) said that it changed our theater.

I'll try to give more detailed analysis soon. I only get to some home every other weekend, and my wife actually took the kids out to let me have a couple of hours with the new speaker. I promise you I will, but at this point, all I can say is that I am so happy! Whoever pre-ordered this speaker will be floored!

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:47 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1002:52 PM

Originally Posted By: Pitbull24

Steve, are those Auralex Mopads under your 180? Did you use them before the 180? Any before and after feedback...Thanks

Yes they are, and yes I did use them before. I wanted to isolate my center from my cabinet. They made a good bit of difference in sound wave transferrence to the cabinet, which acted like a low level boost (but not in a good way... Muddy). I have never tried the Axiom spikes on my cabinet, but I would expect them perform the same, if not better (did not want pointy holes in it).

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1003:08 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1003:24 PM

I am glad you like it Steve. I am anxiously waiting mine to arrive. I also have to say that I have been extremely impressed with my dealings with Axiom. With all the people who talk about being fanboys of particular products I guess I would have to be one, but I only got to be one because of how the speakers sound, (great to me) the build quality, and mostly how I have been treated by the entire axiom company. Customer service treats you as a person and having Alan answer questions on the message board shows they just don't sell speakers, they also care about what they are doing. When I first came across this site years ago I was so nervous about ordering. I never trusted doing anything over the internet, but then having the 30 day trial is what allowed me to pull the trigger. I have since been a very proud owner of axiom. WOW. I sound like a commercial. Anyway can't wait for my new center!

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1004:25 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1004:33 PM

Fantastic looking setup Steve. Just looking at you VP180 makes me feel it will keep up with the M80 much better. Since I’ve owned mine I’ve always felt the M80 needed a comparable center to match their ability so I’m glad Axiom is making this now.

I’m looking forward to your impressions and those of others. I’ve generally preferred the dispersion of a horizontal center for movies but felt nothing else in the Axiom lineup could really keep pace with my M80s than another M80.

Since the talk of this started I’ve been considering trying dual M80s one above (horizontal) and one below (vertical) as a center channel for movies, switching back to the single vertical center for music unless it turns out I like the VP180 for music too though I’m predisposed to believe I won’t.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1007:49 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1007:55 PM

Originally Posted By: SRoode

In the end, I really have to say thank you to Axiom, but more specifically Ian in particular. This is merely a modification (moving the sticks as Ian so appropriately stated) of his spectacular M80 design. The speaker is truly a work of art, and blends in seamlessly with the M80s. If I were Ian, I would be so proud right now! I wanted to take a moment to thank Ian for his skills, patience, forsight, and dedication. I really do feel (more than ever) that I am part of a family here.

During our tour wayyyyy back in '04, Ian, Amie and co. offered my pregnant wife food (i think they called it lunch but really it was around tea time late in the afternoon and she had something the size of a Keg meal sandwich and soup).

As any husband knows, you NEVER get between a pregnant woman and food so Axiom answered my prayers that day (my wife could eat and i could chat some more about audio)!

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1007:56 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1009:28 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1009:35 PM

Jeff, since the VP180 is a bit less than 2" taller than the VP150, the tweeter centers would only be a little less than 1" higher. So, if your VP150 height is about perfect now, the VP180 wouldn't be appreciably different, and no tilting or separate stand would be needed.

Re: VP180 - 05/07/1010:52 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1012:22 AM

I haven't checked the forums in about a month and I've been thinking about what to do about my VP150, I like the timbre well enough, but the dialogue is not always clear and two vp150s had been recommended per Axiom for my size room. I was contemplating a post about how to run Audyssey with one center on the wall and one below the plasma around 2-3 feet forward, I mean how do you run EQ on two discrete centers with one signal, and then I read Alan's article about centers sounding very different given such placement and decided it was just hopeless, I'd just have to live with one vp150 due to my plasma tv being in the way of vp150s above and below the screen being in the same auditory plane.

Now of course I'm thinking about the VP180, but still I have questions. Can I mount this VP180 on the wall? How can I place the vp180 below the plasma tv, I guess the plasma would have to go on the wall? I would have thought the plasma tv (58") would weigh more than the vp180.

Of course it would seem nice to try and run the 150 and 180 in tandem but it still doesn't make sense to me from a calibration point of view.

The time is right to fix my setup but I'm still perplexed, obviously I'm not an engineer of any kind.

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1012:31 AM

Originally Posted By: grunt

I’m looking forward to your impressions and those of others. I’ve generally preferred the dispersion of a horizontal center for movies but felt nothing else in the Axiom lineup could really keep pace with my M80s than another M80.

Since the talk of this started I’ve been considering trying dual M80s one above (horizontal) and one below (vertical) as a center channel for movies, switching back to the single vertical center for music unless it turns out I like the VP180 for music too though I’m predisposed to believe I won’t.

Axiom should experiment with a T-shaped center in an attempt to get the best of both worlds. Sound gurus, how unlikely is it that that would work?

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1008:21 AM

Warning – This “review” will use a lot of words that are opinion based, and qualitative. I'm not a professional speaker reviewer, but I wanted to share my opinions of this wonderful speaker.

I stuck with the “Large” settings that Audyssey suggested, as well as the XO settings of 40 Hz for the M80s and VP 180. To my ears, it gives the fullest sound and tightest bass. After taking measurements with my ears and my sound meter, the only other adjustment I made was actually bringing down the VP180 to -0.5 db, while retaining the M80s at +1.5 db. I think the level difference is directly related to the speaker distance from my main listening position (the M80s are about 2 feet further away from my main listening position than the VP180 since I put it as forward as I could to have at least 6” behind it for the rear ports).

Sometimes I felt that the VP150 could sound thin at times when compared to the M80s. Almost like they got lost and the M80s were overpowering them. This problem is gone with the VP180. As I stated above, I am actually running it 2.0 db lower than the M80s. The sound of the VP180 (IMO) is very close to the M80, but if I had to make a guess at what sounds different, it's that the highs are not as (and I'm really thinking hard to come up with the right word here) “forward”? I was thinking of the words “harsh”, “brash”, and “pronounced”, but they all tend to have negative connotations associated with them and I do not feel that the M80s are really anything like that. Maybe the right word is “mellow” or “refined”.

(Alan, you had stated that the VP180 sounds close to the M80. What did you feel the difference was?)

The VP180s blends perfectly with the M80s, and the speakers seem to really compliment each other. The VP180 sounds much fuller than it's predecessor. The soundstage seemed to open up and have more of a sense of a 3rd dimension. This wasn't just my opinion, my wife said the same thing without me even giving her my impressions. After we listened together for about an hour (mostly to a Carpenter's Greatest Hits SACD which I chose on purpose for channel separation as well as a disc that would really put a spotlight on the center) she said that there were times where she could close her eyes and it would almost sound like Karen was in the room. This was really never the case with the VP150 (at least to me). She also said that she could really hear each speaker individually now, and even though she had heard this disc many times, she heard things she never heard before. I agreed, the disc almost sounded remastered.

Over the course of the day, I must have played 40 CDs. I chose tracks that I was very familiar with and ones that covered the gambit of different types of music. In every case, there was a VERY noticeable difference with the VP180. Every song sounded fuller, deeper, and “more real”, if you know what I mean. Most of these tracks were played using Dolby Pro-Logic II and they sounded almost as good as their multi-track counterparts (though the multi-track counterparts always were a bit better). I also took time to listen in the other seats in my theater, ones that were not the “sweet spot”. What I noticed right away is that the VP180 seems to have a wider sweet spot than the VP150. I could hear the center when I moved to the left or right seat, and I could also hear it very clearly from the back row.

I know this is just a bunch of rambling, but I am very impressed with this speaker. It sounds even better than I hoped it would. If you have M80s and the space, I would seriously consider giving it a listen. I think you will find it hard to go back to the VP150.

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1008:41 AM

Hey, thanks for the review. You obviously put a lot of effort and thought into it. Sounds like you had a fun day. What'd you do, tie up the young'uns so you could get some speaker time?

Your results are as I feared. Now I have to get one.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1010:31 AM

Originally Posted By: SRoode

I also took time to listen in the other seats in my theater, ones that were not the “sweet spot”. What I noticed right away is that the VP180 seems to have a wider sweet spot than the VP150. I could hear the center when I moved to the left or right seat, and I could also hear it very clearly from the back row.

That is is awesome to hear (no pun intended), and no surprise given the VP180's new design (wider, bigger cabinet and unique driver configuration).

I should really stop reading this thread, it's making the wait that much more difficult to handle.

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1010:55 AM

anyone know when "all of us" will see the VP180v3 posted on the site? I guess right now it's under tight raps with the exception of a few who actually have them. Just wondering when it will be advertised to the world s well as when it will be available for purchase. I am considering the M80's, VP180 & a EP175 to replace my current front 3 and sub. turns out my current stand where my center is has about 1/4 more space then required by the VP180, it's like i was meant to have this center! here is my current setup gallery. http://www.blu-ray.com/community/gallery.php?member=solarrdadd

please & thank you!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1010:58 AM

AFAIK only one person has it. Don't know when it will be up on the site but it is available for pre-order right now (just call or email them). Shipping commences May 31st I believe.

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1011:21 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1011:27 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1011:34 AM

Originally Posted By: medic8r

What'd you do, tie up the young'uns so you could get some speaker time?

My wife had it all planned. She knew it was arriving (I didn't) and surprised me. Part of the surprise was to take the kids out to play for a couple of hours so I could play with the new toy. She was just as excited as I was!

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1002:46 PM

Thanks for the Pics. I was toying with the idea of ordering another M80 for my center. I may have to pull the trigger on this pre-order. I would have to build a shelf, but that should be too hard. My M150's are on a bracket today. Hmmmm....

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1004:57 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1009:09 PM

Spoke to Brent this morning and he states that the vp150 would not pair well with the vp180 because the vp180 would just blow away the vp150 volume wise and that the vp180 can stand on its own and does not need a companion, so it seems like the best option will be to wait until June 1st and preorder is over and then order the vp180 on the trade up program.

I think I will mount the plasma tv on the wall and then place the vp180 on the tv table I have, or I could order the vp180 stand on preorder if it seems like a dedicated stand would be a better option.

This is all very exciting! Especially with the big green light from Steve, I feel confident this will put my system into a further, and probably final, level of refinement, for the foreseeable future (i.e., ultimate nirvana unless I should unexpectedly become a billionaire). I've been thinking so much lately about how I could possibly improve the center channel and this seems like it will resolve my only remaining issue, cool beans!

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1010:40 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1011:01 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/08/1011:07 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1001:18 AM

Steve, thanks for taking the time to post your impressions of the VP180. Everything you’ve said about it working better with the M80s than the VP150 is what I felt when I switched to an M80 center except the part about being less forward.

Being that it is noticeably less forward than the M80 have you noticed any issues with the timbre of voices changing as they pan across the front soundstage like when an actor walks off screen left or right while talking?

Cheers,Dean

P.S. Welcome to the all 80’s front soundstage club. You thought the M80 posse was bad . . . .

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1002:17 AM

The M80s already supposedly sound a little different from when I bought them, which I'm curious about, and if Ken is pushing for magnetic grilles on all of the speakers, maybe an M80 v3 is due to come out which matches a little better to this new *ahem* v3 VP180. And with the mention by Gene of M60v3s, maybe the whole Axiom line is being voiced slightly differently. There's my conspiracy theory of the night.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1002:52 AM

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1002:58 AM

Speaking of caps, I want something like this, but I don't want it affixed to a helmet. I want it to more naturally emanate from my hair. It seems like it would make a good chef's hat, especially if you specialize in spicy foods.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1007:14 AM

Originally Posted By: grunt

Being that it is noticeably less forward than the M80 have you noticed any issues with the timbre of voices changing as they pan across the front soundstage like when an actor walks off screen left or right while talking?

A VERY slight difference, but nowhere near as noticeable as the VP150. I think to the average listener, there would be no difference. If anything, I think the difference is in the positive direction because the timbre sounds a little more natural for vocals than if I were to have an M80 as a center. I think the fuller sound is perfect for a center. Again, sound is so subjective, and I think many of you will have slightly different opinions (also will be based on your room).

I am very interested to see what Alan thought was different about the VP180 as far as it's sound.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1011:19 AM

I don't remember who posted it a few pages back, but the rumor going around is that Axiom will not be offering a 150 to 180 trade up right away.

If I am wrong, which I hope I am, somebody can jump in and comment on it.

Honestly if they didn't do it, it wouldn't surprise me due to how popular this beast will be.

I had convinced my fiance that a new receiver(4810), Blu-Ray player(BDP-83) and two new sets of speakers(M2&M22 inwalls) were all I needed to upgrade right now....guess I have to find a way to get the VP-180 next month. OF COURSE, that will most likely lead to an upgrade from my M60's to the M80's...

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1011:21 AM

Thanks for the clarification and sorry for so many questions but tweaking is my nature. By any chance have you tired it out vertically. I was wondering how that driver array would sound standing up. Specifically I was thinking that FR of the speaker wouldn’t vary as much depending on which set of drivers was closest to ear level when elevated and sitting up close.

Also I was wondering if you think the slight difference in tone of the VP180 to the M80 may be just an artifact of it’s different positioning both horizontal and in/near a cabinet?

I completely agree with you that sound is subjective however, we have had a common experience pairing the VP150 and M80s and noticed the same improvements when switching out the VP150 for an M80 like design so I think in this case we are perceiving things at least somewhat similarly.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1012:09 PM

I think tweaking is in any audiophile's nature! No, I have not tried it vertically. I have very little time when I am home (on the road for work) to tweak what I have. It may be an artifact, but I just finished listening to my last set before my plane ride today. It was "Hall and Oates: Live at the Troubadour". It sounded so perfect with the new center, that any differences in timbre can be thrown right out the window. My wife had heard it before with the VP150. I called her down to specifically listen to "Abandoned Luncheonette". She said that she felt like she was there listening to it live. Any differences in timbre are actually helping the blend. It is a breathtaking sound, and sometimes even emotional depending on your personal ties to the song that is being played. IMHO, it's the greatest compliment you can give to a loudspeaker.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1012:40 PM

That was "one great sounding system" last summer with the VP150 at the helm and twin EP800's with the old amps driving them... THIS system is more than likely 'UNBE-FREAKIN-LIVABLE"!!!!!!

I'm definately not going to pass up the invite to 'come play' sometime this summer now!

Last time I departed your home Steve I was thoroughly convinced that Axiom made one hell of a loud speaker, and that I needed to place my order for a system pronto. I have no doubts that this time I'll come away thoroughly convinced that I HAVE to get the VP180!

Congratulations on convincing Ian and the rest of them over there at Axiom to build you your dream center. I have no doubts that it had at least occured to them to do this before, but it seems you had quite some influence on finally getting them to 'get out of my dreams and get into my car' so-to-speak. Now the rest of us get to reap the rewards as well.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1006:26 PM

According to Brent, the vp150 to vp180 trade up was what I thought: you can't get both deals, i.e., you can't order the vp180 on preorder and also get a tradeup discount, so you can't get the $100 off via preorder and also tradeup, but if you don't want to hang onto the vp150 you can order the vp180 after June 1st and get whatever the tradeup value on your vp150 is (based on date of purchase) reduced from the expected price of $695.

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1007:35 PM

yeah, and either way, its about 100$ off the "normal" price... would be nice if they even gave say 100$ off for a 150, so about 200$ total off of the regular price. I would think they would still be ahead financially, and would probably sell a lot more product.....

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1008:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1008:49 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1008:50 PM

As per my date of purchase approx Sept 2008 the price reduction is approx 340-370 dollars from the vp150 to the 180-you guys are insane, that is like buying an upgrade for NOTHING in realtime dollars. and we're talking a VP180!

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1008:58 PM

Steve -

I am very envious of your theater. You've done well. I hope to do something very similar when I build the next house. Now if I could just figure out what I wanted to do when I grow up, and where, I could start the house......

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1009:19 PM

I agree with Sat. I think both of Axiom's deals are more than generous. If you don't have an Axiom center, you can buy one for $100 off. If you do have an Axiom center, they give you a spectacular credit for the trade in. It's really a win-win.

Michael_D and everyone else... Thank you so much for your kind words and support! I really do feel like one of the luckiest guys on Earth (except I'm back in Raleigh for work now... 2 more weeks away).

Re: VP180 - 05/09/1010:19 PM

Steve, if you're able to get a little time to temporarily turn it upright(even if it partially blocks the screen), your impressions would be interesting. The little comparisons I've done in the past with "conventional" MTM centers indicated that they sounded better when upright.

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1012:28 AM

Originally Posted By: SatKartr

As per my date of purchase approx Sept 2008 the price reduction is approx 340-370 dollars from the vp150 to the 180-you guys are insane, that is like buying an upgrade for NOTHING in realtime dollars. and we're talking a VP180!

So you're saying they're going to give you between $325 & $350 dollars credit for your VP150??? Holy crap, that is AWESOME!!! So in other words Axiom is charging you about $70 bucks to use their center channel speaker for the past 2 years... Axiom never ceases to amaze me!

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1012:39 AM

Steve mentioned a very, very, VERY slight change in timber matching between the M80's and VP180... I don't know exactly what difference ports make, but I was wondering if this difference could come from the M80's having 2 ports out back, and one port up front as opposed to the VP180 having 3 ports out back?

I think if I were just now looking at putting a HT system together, I would very seriously have to look into getting 3 VP180's and using them as L/R and center... at least give it a try. I know how much even the slightest difference in sound drives Grunt absolutely crazy, so this would probably be ideal for him.

It certainly gives us all a lot more options when putting a HT together anyway, that's forsure!

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1012:27 PM

My opinion is that any minor differences Steve might have noticed in timbre would not be solved even by buying 3 VP180's unless you oriented them all the same way and treated the room aggressively. You're just not going to get "perfect" - even out of the same speakers - because of different room interactions.

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1012:36 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1001:22 PM

Hmmm... Horizontal L/R mains you say eh? Now that would be an original set-up!

There is a picture posted here on the forum (can’t remember where) of somebody, I think in California who set up 3 VP150s across the front.

I am very interested in how the VP180 sounds vertically. I can’t see why it wouldn’t sound as good or even better (often horizontal centers arrayed vertically have better horizontal dispersion). Assuming it does match the M80s well (can’t imagine why it won’t) then being able to have 3 VP180s up front arrayed either vertically, horizontally or a combination of both opens up some interesting placement possibilities and tweaking opportunities.

I’ve already toyed with the idea of using the fabrication shop at work to make 3 stands that would allow the VP180 to rotate 90 degrees from horizontal to vertical. I could have them arrayed vertically for music and have the center or all three turned horizontally for movies. Just so happens that three of them will fit horizontally under my screen with just enough room to spare to allow them to spin.

Also with symmetrical driver placement I think the VP180 might even work better than the M80s on the sides of the screen elevated up off the ground. This would give the option like some have done with the on/in-wall speakers of having the screen framed with VP180s.

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1002:59 PM

I spent a considerable amount of time over the weekend scanning the internet and looking at many speaker manufacturer's websites(at all price levels)and quite surprisingly the only companies that I have found(other than ED)that have designed and are offering a center channel that is similar in size and driver configuration to their floor standing designs are Axiom and Paradigm. There may be others out there but all of the others that I have seen generally have center channels of various configurations with only "some" of the drivers and considerably smaller cabinets that they still "tout" as being "timbre matched" to their L/R speakers and these include many in the thousands of dollars in cost.

It would seem in the end, when all is said and done(and it would seem the folks at Axiom realized this), I guess you can't defy the laws of physics in that unless you can have identical vertically matched speakers across the front, OR in order to get that maximum performance in a horizontally oriented speaker, you still need the "box" and in one configuration or another, ALL the matching drivers.

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1006:47 PM

Hope I didn't miss it in this thread, but I don't see what the recommended minimum spacing from the wall is for the three rear ports to work properly. Any information?

Hi donlboy,

The minimum distance required from the back of the VP180 or M80 or any other Axiom rear ported speaker model to let the port breath is only 2 inches.

Putting any speaker close to a wall, and even more so close to a corner, will give you quite a boost in the upper bass region. It does not matter if the ports are in the front or the back or if there are no ports at all. It is one of those things you just have to try and if you seem to have an overpowering and muddy bass then you need to move the speakers away from the wall a bit.

Re: VP180 - 05/10/1007:06 PM

Thanks JC. I was going to say that it would seem to me that just like M80's, the trick is to move it around until it sounds right to YOU. We can all recommend our own suggestions, but in the end, everyone has a little different opinion on placement.

Re: VP180 - 05/11/1012:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/11/1008:28 PM

would the VP180 overkill for a M60 setup?also, would it sync nicely with the M60?Any of you here have heard the sound of Klipsch RC64 center? Does it blend well with the M60/M80? the items are in my cart but really undecided if want to click "buy now" .....

Re: VP180 - 05/11/1008:43 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/11/1008:58 PM

I would certainly expect the VP180 to pair better with M60s than a Klipsch anything. But as there's a single VP180 in the wild, and Axiom's likely to be testing alongside M80s, I can't say it definitively.

Re: VP180 - 05/12/1012:26 AM

Originally Posted By: kcarlile

But as there's a single VP180 in the wild...

Easy there Cali boy! Oh sure, for you out there on the West Coast drinking in the ocean air and soaking in the ultra cool rays of the sun year round, Indiana might seem like a primative jungle filled with corn and not much else... but that's not ALL we are!!! Why we have the Colts, and... well uh..... well anyway we have the Colts!!!

And come this football season our Colts will kick some West Coast BOOOTAY for the cold hearted remarks you have made against the Hoosier state.... PREPARE FOR BATTLE!!!!!!!!

Re: VP180 - 05/12/1001:13 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/12/1004:16 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1009:16 AM

I gotta stop reading this thread--I'm torn between upgrade fever and laughing too hard, because I already know all the joys of wasting time on a John Deere tractor.

Anyways, Micah--your signature pretty much sums up the speakers I want to ultimately get from Axiom (with the exception of the VP150 being replaced with a VP180).

Question about the EP800--what subwoofer did you have before and how much more are you loving the EP800? Am working on convincing my fiancee to upgrade the system--just got some Audiobytes for her new computer (start small, right?!).

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1009:43 AM

AndyP,

I just learned of the joys of a zero-turn riding lawn mower. They are the shiznittle bam snip snap sack! So fun to drive and I can just zip through acres of property in a matter of a few hours while triming around most of the trees at the same time.

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1001:05 PM

Originally Posted By: AndyP

Question about the EP800--what subwoofer did you have before and how much more are you loving the EP800?

Well Andy my HT previous to this one was very different. Yes I had a lot of money invested in it, but I really didn't know what I was doing when I pieced it together. To answer your question, I had a Cerwin Vega 12 inch down firing sub that made a lot of noise, but wasn't very accurate. Back then I thought $1000 dollars for a subwoofer was absolutely ridiculous! So it's safe to say I made a lot of changes as far as my attitude towards costs was concerned.

And you missed the epic EP800 saga. The cliff notes goes like this... when I first recieved my EP800 I had many, many, MANY freaky problems surrounding it. After months of trying this and that, I finally decided to throw in the towel and go in another direction. But Axiom had one more trick up their sleeve... they completely redid the amp. That and I found out my Denon reciever had some sort of compatibility issues with the sub. Axiom now has that reciever and are looking into what the problem was. In the meantime I have a Sherwood Newcastle running things. It's not as powerful as my Denon, but it does an adequate job of driving my Axioms.

And now that I have a working EP800, I am as you said, "LOVING IT"!!!! It's an incredible subwoofer. As are all of Axioms offerings IMO.

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1001:08 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

AndyP,

I just learned of the joys of a zero-turn riding lawn mower. They are the shiznittle bam snip snap sack! So fun to drive and I can just zip through acres of property in a matter of a few hours while triming around most of the trees at the same time.

You bastard!!! I've been wanting a zero turn-radius mower for years, but can't justify spending $5000 dollars on a decent one. How much did you spend on yours?

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1002:11 PM

Originally Posted By: Micah

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

AndyP,

I just learned of the joys of a zero-turn riding lawn mower. They are the shiznittle bam snip snap sack! So fun to drive and I can just zip through acres of property in a matter of a few hours while triming around most of the trees at the same time.

You bastard!!! I've been wanting a zero turn-radius mower for years, but can't justify spending $5000 dollars on a decent one. How much did you spend on yours?

I have mower envy now!

I have mower envy for my landscaper's zero turn when I watch him cruise my lawn...... but I can live with it, let him spend the $5K

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1003:24 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1004:11 PM

Originally Posted By: Micah

Originally Posted By: wordgasm

...... but I can live with it, let him spend the $5K

......and then slowly recoup that $5k off of you while mowing your yard

I know ... I'm living for today, at $86/mth, he can mow for a while! And the $86/mth includes Bugkiller/Fertilizer/Weedkiller, all 3 times a year and includes labor for seeding, laying mulch etc. I just have to pay for the seed/hay/mulch. He also mmows as many times a week as needed.. 1 or 2, .........now in the winter he's making a killin!

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1004:48 PM

86 bucks a month is cheap, my guy charges 25 bucks per cutting that doesn't include anything beyond cutting, edging and trimming the yard and we have a small yard. I prefer to do my own nutrient, herbicide and pesticide treatments anyway so that's no big deal.

I've owned my share of lawn equipment over the years and as long as I am economically capable will continue to pay to have the work done. 'Let me see, what will I do on my off day ... fishing or yardwork?'

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1004:54 PM

Originally Posted By: RickF

86 bucks a month is cheap, my guy charges 25 bucks per cutting that doesn't include anything beyond cutting, edging and trimming the yard and we have a small yard. I prefer to do my own nutrient, herbicide and pesticide treatments anyway so that's no big deal.

I've owned my share of lawn equipment over the years and as long as I am economically capable will continue to pay to have the work done. 'Let me see, what will I do on my off day ... fishing or yardwork?'

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1005:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1005:14 PM

Originally Posted By: RickF

'Let me see, what will I do on my off day ... fishing or yardwork?'

Good Lord what I would do to have my wife have an attitude like this. I'm all for doing things when they are fun, and sometimes projects or little things around the house are fun, but chores and the like just suck the life out of me. I would so much rather pay someone to clean and mow the lawn but she won't have any part of it whatsoever

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1005:25 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1005:55 PM

Originally Posted By: Potatohead

Originally Posted By: RickF

'Let me see, what will I do on my off day ... fishing or yardwork?'

Good Lord what I would do to have my wife have an attitude like this. I'm all for doing things when they are fun, and sometimes projects or little things around the house are fun, but chores and the like just suck the life out of me. I would so much rather pay someone to clean and mow the lawn but she won't have any part of it whatsoever

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1007:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1007:16 PM

Originally Posted By: RickF

Originally Posted By: Potatohead

Originally Posted By: RickF

'Let me see, what will I do on my off day ... fishing or yardwork?'

Good Lord what I would do to have my wife have an attitude like this. I'm all for doing things when they are fun, and sometimes projects or little things around the house are fun, but chores and the like just suck the life out of me. I would so much rather pay someone to clean and mow the lawn but she won't have any part of it whatsoever

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1007:24 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1007:31 PM

There was a period of time whenever I traveled a lot with work and my wife took over the yard chores, one particular summer she gave it up and hired the guy that cuts most of the lawns in the hood for the time that I was gone ... I really didn't want to contribute to the unemployment issues of the day and just kept him on whenever I came back, worked out great for all parties!

Re: VP180 - 05/13/1010:01 PM

Heh...I keep waiting for our John Deere to breakdown to get a zero-radius mower as well.

Your Denon is only driving the fronts and surrounds, and just providing a signal for sound to the sub, but the EP800 runs on its own amp right? That is weird that the Denon amp would have a compatibility problem.

Re: VP180 - 05/15/1012:16 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/15/1004:24 PM

Talking about showing your system to a friend, here's and interesting side story. I had a friend (actually, the person I hired as my general contractor for our home addition 2 years ago) and his family over last weekend for dinner. He's building a new house and was interested in my input for his new theater. I had only showed him my setup once when he was building the addition. I mentioned a new speaker that I had (the VP180, which just came in the mail), and before I could even mention the manufacturer, he remembered that I had Axioms. I was pretty surprised that he remembered that, but then he told me how floored he was with the sound he heard when I played them for him (2 years ago for about 10 minutes).

This time, they all came down to the theater and I played a scene from Avatar (have not played the whole movie yet, but it was a scene where the main character was trying to capture what looked like a dragon). Anyway, we all watched for at least 10 minutes, and they were mesemerized (actually, I was too. The subs were really moving some serious air in that scene. You could feel the shock waves hitting you as the dragon flapped it's wings).

When it was over, my friend and his wife said they never experienced anything like that. The sound was better than any home theater they heard. Their little girl was really excited and said it was better than seeing it in the movies.

Re: VP180 - 05/15/1007:05 PM

That's a cool story. People have enjoyed my system, but no one has yet been tempted to start down this dark path. Well, my coworker's son would like to build a nice system at some point, but his priorities are elsewhere for now.

I'd like to have people over more regularly when I move my system into the basement. I think I'll be able to fine-tune the sound a lot more, and I'll have more room for seating, so it will be easier to have movie nights. But yeah, I kind of wish I had some local friends who were as into the hobby. I think it would be more fun to play with all of this stuff with other people.

Re: VP180 - 05/16/1003:54 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1009:03 AM

with the 31's arriving in less than a week, and no official "get ready you all" from the site should I still believe what I've been reading for a while that the VP180 is going to be released on Monday or Tuesday of next week?

Yes, I know i'm new here but i've never seen anything officially released by Axiom on the center, just what's here at the forum. I couldn't even find a press release about it from them. is thsi the way Axiom always does it, not saying anything and then the thing just shows up available and for sale? Thats's fine if that's the way. I've been wanting to buy the M80's & the EP175 but have been holding off waiting for the "rumored" VP180, i only used the term rumored because i can't find anything official from Axiom.

I do hope this is not going to be another UMC-1 thing (that's not a crack at Emotiva either but a truth about how long it took for it to finally be released after almost 2 years of waiting) as far as the actual release goes. I really do want this center (as well as the other speakers mentioned) but, since i'm not a VIP member or a previous owner, i have nothing else to actually go on about the center other than what has been posted here. i'm also concerned because this thread has been very quiet considering this incredible new addition is supposed to be released in one week or less.

I'm trying to keep the faith but so far for me not a word from Axiom themselves on their site is a little bothersome for me. I'm hoping that in a week or so, I'll be able to laugh after seeing the speaker up for sale and reading the stellar reviews from owners start to pour in.

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1009:35 AM

Hi solardadd,

I wouldn't worry about anything regarding the VP180. Like MarkSJohnson noted axiom does not do vaporware. As far as hype goes Axiom does not really take part in creating forum hype of their products, their staff have much more important things to do like running a business so it fires on all cylinders at all times instead of wasting productivity through creating viral hype of products on the forum. They let their products speak for themselves.

All the hype comes from the owners actually owning the product and only 1 individual has this speaker. They also do not create hype of their products "in development" and make promises on release dates unless the product is completed and is up to their specs and standards. Therefore you will see much less "hype" than what you are use to over at EMO.

IMO, Axiom takes a much different approach than EMO and is a much more competently ran business because of it. You will never see a debauchery such as the UMC-1 for example from Axiom.

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1009:57 AM

Salardadd, the best course of action for you would be to send an email through Axiom's expert advice support mentionning that you would be interested in the VP180 as soon as it is available and go from their answer.

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1011:07 AM

The Owner's club newsletter simply states the VP180 will begin shipping on May 31, this would be for the May preorders. I would guess this might be the date it could show up on the products page for sale to the public.

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1011:34 AM

Or...you could just pick up the phone, call the toll free number and speak to someone instead of relying on information found in the world of on-line conversations.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 05/25/1012:52 PM

Originally Posted By: solarrdadd

with the 31's arriving in less than a week, and no official "get ready you all" from the site should I still believe what I've been reading for a while that the VP180 is going to be released on Monday or Tuesday of next week?

Yes, I know i'm new here but i've never seen anything officially released by Axiom on the center, just what's here at the forum. I couldn't even find a press release about it from them. is thsi the way Axiom always does it, not saying anything and then the thing just shows up available and for sale? Thats's fine if that's the way. I've been wanting to buy the M80's & the EP175 but have been holding off waiting for the "rumored" VP180, i only used the term rumored because i can't find anything official from Axiom.

I do hope this is not going to be another UMC-1 thing (that's not a crack at Emotiva either but a truth about how long it took for it to finally be released after almost 2 years of waiting) as far as the actual release goes. I really do want this center (as well as the other speakers mentioned) but, since i'm not a VIP member or a previous owner, i have nothing else to actually go on about the center other than what has been posted here. i'm also concerned because this thread has been very quiet considering this incredible new addition is supposed to be released in one week or less.

I'm trying to keep the faith but so far for me not a word from Axiom themselves on their site is a little bothersome for me. I'm hoping that in a week or so, I'll be able to laugh after seeing the speaker up for sale and reading the stellar reviews from owners start to pour in.

Oh, it's coming alright You can always call or email Axiom direct, or just wait until June since it's so close now.

Re: VP180 - 05/26/1006:58 PM

To reiterate, the custom finishes I'm sure, would be based on the pre-order price or the reg price depending on when you order but really you should contact Axiom directly about those prices if you want them right now. I would presume that once the VP180 is on the website officially, all pricing will be shown(not pre-order obviously).

Re: VP180 - 05/26/1007:22 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/26/1007:26 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/26/1008:44 PM

Can someone please provide the prices for the VP180:1. Owner's Club pre-issue price2. Owner's Club VaSSallo finish version (maybe Owner's Club "deal" is standard vinyl only?)3. Regular retail price once fully available4. Regular retail price of VaSSallo finish version

Hi bluray,

The pre-order price is $595.00 and the period ends May 31st.. The regular price for a VP180 in an Axiom standard vinyl finish will be $695.00.

VaSSallo finishes are available for pre-orderas well; the price varies according to the wood and the gloss selections. All woods except "Rosewood" in a low (satin) or semi gloss has a pre-order price of $796.55.

I don't have the exact price at this time for the VP180 in a VaSSallo finish after the pre-order period. It will be approximately $960.00 again depending on the wood and the gloss selections.

Re: VP180 - 05/26/1009:49 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/27/1011:21 AM

Guys -

No need to complicate this any. It's quite simple.

The pre-order deal is $100 off. $100 off regardless of finish. It is a number than Peter Bell came up with.

If you want to buy one, and wish to get the $100 off, you either need to order it through the owners club (if you are an owner's club member) - or, you need to pick up the phone and ask a sales rep if you can get the deal. My guess is that you can, but only if you take the effort to make a phone call.

Re: VP180 - 05/27/1008:34 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/27/1010:24 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/28/1001:58 AM

Great, more things to add to the 'Wish List'Just purchased a 55" Toshiba 670U, and love it to death. But thats the last big HT purchase till we sell the house and upgrade. Hopefully in a larger room in the next house, I'll upgrade my Reciever, the projector, and then the center and another sub. That thing looks like a beast and I like the fact that it's running dual 6" woofers. That'll fill out the soundstage tremendously !

Re: VP180 - 05/31/1004:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 05/31/1004:53 PM

Originally Posted By: jakewash

Pics of that setup are a must, thanks!

I have some spare M22s and a VP100 I keep threatening to install in the bedroom but my wife says no way.

My wife likes it so no problems. She always want the bigger one. We have a 5.1 in the bedroom, a 7.1 in the living room, a 5.1 in the gym (that's my place! :-) ) and two 2.1 systems in the computer room.

Around 95% of them are Axiom. I have several kinds: AX1.5, M22, QS8, M60 (on order), M80 , VP150 , VP180 (on order).

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1002:12 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1003:28 PM

And they will not be shipping to everyone on the first day. Depending on the number of pre-orders and your position in the first-ordered, first-shipped queue, you may want to prepare yourself for more than a week's wait...

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1003:37 PM

Ok that kinda upsets me a little bit. If you are telling people that your are going to ship something a certain day then it should ship that day. Don't tell me one thing and then do another. Not good business.

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1006:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1006:11 PM

I feel your pain. I am a bit disappointed too. I think Axiom is a great company but I was really hopping to play with my new toy today. I am curious to know the reason on the delay though...Hopefully it's not something that went wrong during the production that they will try to fix ass fast.

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1006:13 PM

i know i'm new here but i guess what i'd been hearing about the VP180 showing up today on the site either just didn't pan out for Axiom or was the date made up by rumor on the site? i'm just curious because i want to buy one or at least read the official page for the center speaker. even if they weren't ready to sell it until a week or so, why not go ahead and put up the official page so people can get info straight from the maker/seller not just by hear-say on the site and not from the few who are in the club. i think that club only on the info is a bad idea, it didn't work out for emotiva (at least the company did put out official information from time to time about the delays and such so i will give them that much credit. can't find one word from the company on this site from Axiom in the form of an offical release notice or anything) and it's not working out here. if you offer previous owners a discount, that's fine, i'm all for that but why hold back info on a product to a few and not to everyone like a potential customer like me? now because there is not official release notice from Axiom we have to read about what was heard or something like that. yes, i know it will be ready when it's ready but that really should come from Axiom to add some truth to it. they should step up and say something to all of us, then, we all at the same time will know what is what. now i'm sure i'll get a beat down but that's cool too it still won't change what's right. hey, i don't even know is Axiom promised that these speakers would be available today or not which is part of the problem, i'm going on hear-say from this forum. not seeing anything from Axiom themselves, that date may be made up too!

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1006:24 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1007:49 PM

Everybody should just relax.

Maybe Axiom doesn't WANT to say anything official, yet.

What we've got is pre-orders available to some previous customers. That sounds like "Beta" to me. We should be happy we've got ANY information (i.e. "hope") at this point. Without the beauty of the uncensored Axiom forums, we'd have a big bunch of nothing at the moment.

I don't think it's terribly useful to start throwing around concepts like credibility and right/wrong because of a PERCEIVED delay in shipping. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think anybody can confirm that Axiom HASN'T shipped anything yet, right?

Maybe everybody at Axiom is simply too busy packing and shipping VP180's to type an update on the packing and shipping of VP180's.

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1008:00 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1008:06 PM

The owners club newsletter said "with shipping BEGINNING on May 31..." (for pre-orders), not "every pre-ordered VP180 will be shipped on May 31".

I enjoy complaining as much as the next guy, but how could this *possibly* be a credibility issue on June 1 ?

EDIT - also, maybe I missed something but I thought "regular" shipments were supposed to start on June 30 or thereabouts, so I wasn't expecting to see the VP180 appear on the site until then.

My personal feeling is that if Axiom expected to start shipping pre-orders this week and actually starts shipping them next week then they're doing pretty darned good, but I admit that view is colored by 30 years of my own experience with new product development

Re: VP180 - 06/01/1010:08 PM

I think people are just anxious to give this beast a try! Well... the only thing we can do is wait...

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1012:13 AM

Jeepers, where did the mob come from? The VP180 is real, just delayed. As Adrian said, all it takes is a phone call. I spoke to Axiom and was told that they were still awaiting delivery on some part(s) required for the crossover, so first shipments will be delayed somewhat.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1003:55 AM

Would all you guys stop trying “enhance your calm.” This is an ID speaker forum. Don’t you want to be full of rumors, panic and snot slinging.

On the serious side perhaps an official thread in the “What’s New At Axiom” subforum with up-to-date info would be in order at this point no matter how accurate the info posted by members is since some people don’t seem to be getting the word.

I think many of use regulars here don’t always realize how many “part-timers” and lurkers hang around this place and don’t always keep up with things. Like last night at about 4:00 AM here there were at least 10 guests in the “What are you Listening to Tonight” thread.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1007:13 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1008:59 AM

Originally Posted By: grunt

Would all you guys stop trying “enhance your calm.” This is an ID speaker forum. Don’t you want to be full of rumors, panic and snot slinging.

On the serious side perhaps an official thread in the “What’s New At Axiom” subforum with up-to-date info would be in order at this point no matter how accurate the info posted by members is since some people don’t seem to be getting the word.

I think many of use regulars here don’t always realize how many “part-timers” and lurkers hang around this place and don’t always keep up with things. Like last night at about 4:00 AM here there were at least 10 guests in the “What are you Listening to Tonight” thread.

I agree, my point with my post yesterday was that there is nothing being said from the company in any way shape or form on the issue. they could and should be the ones that put this to rest for everyone by speaking. if they say nothing then rumors of "what if" will continue. I think the worse thing Axiom can do is say nothing. I have not yet seen anything on the site from them (the company) about the VP180. yes, i am interested in it and want to buy it but am, like most, going on what i hear on this forum from people other than axiom and that's where the problem is. come on Axiom, throw us a freak'n bone here! (Dr. Evil)

i don't mind waiting, just want to know what i'm waiting for and hear it from the company, not the customers or potential customers (like myself) or the casual viewers.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1009:37 AM

They have email and a phone. Rumors on forums start because people are asking question on forums instead of sending them to the people with the actual answer. Forums can be a great help, but Axiom cannot be held responsible for not answering questions they were not asked.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1009:54 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1009:56 AM

Originally Posted By: EFalardeau

They have email and a phone. Rumors on forums start because people are asking question on forums instead of sending them to the people with the actual answer. Forums can be a great help, but Axiom cannot be held responsible for not answering questions they were not asked.

I agree with you in for the most part, however, the company should put something out for the masses. why would i want everyone to have to call me for information; why would they not address everyone at once by putting something out on the web themselves about this? I just don't think it should be asked that all customers call to find out this information. if i was an axiom operator, i would be tired if everyone kept calling about the same thing, that's why you put out an official notice so that everyone can have the same information at the same time. of course this will never stop phone calls, nor should it but it would help. we all just want to know something and like i said, only the company can answer that. isn't that part of what this forum is for? i'm surprised Axiom isn't utilizing it's own forum to that end.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1010:02 AM

Its ok Solarrdadd, right now you're just suffering from a mild case of 'Axiomownersclubitis', your symptoms are perfectly normal. But don't worry, once you become an Axiom owner, and are privy to deals and details like this, you will appreciate having access to things that non-owners don't.

Axiom hasn't made a public statement to the masses yet for one reason alone, they aren't ready to meet demand for the product yet. My guess is (and this is only a guess), that they received more preorders through the owners club than they may have anticipated. It must be nearly ready to come to market, or Steve wouldn't be enjoying his (when he gets time to) already.

Bottom line is, since they don't have anything official up on the site yet, there are less people who may be disapponted if there are any delays. Damage control. The members of the owners club are likely to be more patient and understanding of any hold-ups that may arise. So if they are the only one's who are actually 'expecting' the product and Axiom can't deliver promptly, then at least there aren't scores and scores of disappointed patrons out there, many of whom might cross Axiom off their list altogether if they thought right out of the gate that Axiom was a company that didn't have their shit together. So we'll wait and see when they make an official announcement. Once they have, my guess is they'll have their ducks in a row and be ready to make the masses happy.

That being said, Axiom is not an enormous company. They do have their fair share of growing pains. The EP800 is a good example. My personal opinion is that it may have been rushed to market a bit too quickly, using what was basically the EP600 amp modified to run two woofers instead of one. The new amp is much better suited to that task, and makes it an entirely different, and definately better subwoofer than the first incarnation of the EP800 (I've experienced both). So IMO opinion they stumbled out of the gate with that product, and are probably trying hard not to duplicate that experience for their customers.

However I must say, whatever problems we might have had with the original EP800's, we could not have asked for a better response from a company than what we got from Axiom. They went far above and beyond what I ever would have dreamed they would do to make sure we were satisfied with our product. Trust me when I say, if you chose to go with Axiom, you are chosing a company that is as dedicated to their customers as there has ever been on the face of this earth!

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1010:19 AM

Originally Posted By: MarkSJohnson

Originally Posted By: EFalardeau

Axiom cannot be held responsible for not answering questions they were not asked.

Perfectly said!

This statement is ridiculous. So according to you it isn't the responsibility of the company to let its customers know what is going on. It is up to the customer to call and ask. I wouldn't be a customer very long if I was blown off that easily. Not to mention they would be the first people to know if there was going to be a delay and prepare for the issue. In other words notifying people that it would affect. Now having said that my dealings with axiom over the years has been, for most part, excellent. I really enjoy my speakers and the forum has been a great source of help and information, but if there is an obvious delay they have definitely dropped the ball on this one. I was one of the pre-orders and I was expecting to see my shipping notice. I have already moved my vp150 into another room. So not getting a notification or at least an email explaining the issue is not acceptable in my opinion.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1010:24 AM

You are confusing two issues: communication with people that have already ordered and (your issue)and request for information about a product that Axiom has choosen not to broadcast its existence as of yet (the OP issue).

YES, an email to those waiting for an ordered product would have been the right thing to do(are we missing Amie or what!). Reading posts properly is also a good thing to do...

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1010:43 AM

Wow, Axiom must make great products for so many to be this passionate about getting their hands on a new center channel! It's all Steve's fault; shame on you for sharing all the great news about the vp180. I'm sure it's coming guys, relax a bit. How do you think a newbie to Axiom will read into some of these discussions?

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1011:02 AM

AND YES!!! I am excited to get my hands on the new center! Getting time to play with it will be difficult since I have a son who will be turning 2 next month takes a nap at 11 to 1 everyday. Can't wait to see the difference. On the other hand I was surprised how well just using the 60's without a center works.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1001:27 PM

Originally Posted By: EFalardeau

Forums can be a great help, but Axiom cannot be held responsible for not answering questions they were not asked.

They are being held responsible in the court of public opinion regardless of what logic might dictate. That was the reason I had suggested using the “Notify” button to alert Axiom to issues they might want to know about like the EP500 amp pictures. In the nature of internet forums once a meme gets started it can go wild. Just look at the numerous bogus opinions many people have about Axiom speakers spread because small numbers of people started saying something that just keeps getting repeated by others. I can’t count how many times I’ve read - "I don’t own Axioms but they say Axioms are bright,” “M80s are hard to drive,” etc. . . .

All it takes is one passionate person to start posting negative comments in certain internet forums and pretty soon it’s the new truth getting endlessly repeated by people who want others to think they are experts. Since Axiom doesn’t have a heavy presence in other forums there are few people out there to quell rumors once started. While it certainly won’t put Axiom out of business it cant’ help but have a negative impact.

Originally Posted By: Solarrdadd

i would be tired if everyone kept calling about the same thing, that's why you put out an official notice so that everyone can have the same information at the same time. of course this will never stop phone calls, nor should it but it would help. we all just want to know something and like i said, only the company can answer that. isn't that part of what this forum is for? i'm surprised Axiom isn't utilizing it's own forum to that end.

Axiom unlike most other ID companies is very “hands off” with it’s forum. I have never seen it moderated unless by request from an OP, they virtually never discuss pre-release products (usually only to have a naming contest) and except for the “Hearing Things” subforum seldom use it as a marketing tool.

As pointed out by others this initial preorder was only directed at existing Axiom owners. The first time I’ve noticed this being done. This is relatively new territory for Axiom so it doesn’t hurt for others to “throw them a bone” too. OTOH I said what I did about them making an announcement because a situation reaches a point where they do need to take control of the information flow or possibly suffer negative “press” especially due to comparisons with other companies, one in particular, which have given preorders a bad name.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:35 PM

1. The VP180 has not yet been publicly announced, nor (AFAIK) is there any expectation of doing so until the end of June.

2. Existing owners were sent private emails giving them a heads-up about the new product, and offered a chance to pre-order with shipments starting May 31.

3. Some of us pre-ordered (I did).

4. In our enthusiasm, a bunch of us blabbed about the private owners-club email and its content on the public forums. It's probably fair to say that this was not part of Axiom's plans.

5. Rather than starting to ship on May 31 as originally planned, it now appears that shipments will start a week or so later. Personally, I see this as a non-issue - I wasn't told that *my* order would ship on May 31 anyways (my expectation was that it would ship some time between May 31 and the end of June), so I don't see any reason why this should be considered any kind of problem. Opinions may vary on this.

Bottom line here is that if there is a public aspect to the timing of initial VP180 shipments it is (IMO) our own damn fault for blabbing on a public forum about the advance information we were given in a private email. I'm as guilty of that as anyone, of course

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:41 PM

While I agree that this gives them a loophole, it's not like it's anything new for the Owner's Club info to be posted on the forum. It's not the first time. Personally, I'm not upset or disappointed by the slight delay, but that's probably just because I didn't pre-order. I know when I order stuff the waiting game kills me, and that's why I never bother with the Factory Outlet. I suppose I should consider myself lucky that my system is in Boston Cherry now that the lighter stock finishes have a 10 day lead time.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:48 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:48 PM

Well in the interest of blabbing as Bridgman had previously mentioned here I just received a call from Brent at Axiom asking if I planned on bi-wiring my VP180(which I'm not btw) which will affect which connectors they put on the speaker. Apparently they have received the crossover parts and hope to start shipping next Tuesday or Wednesday.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:50 PM

Quote:

While I agree that this gives them a loophole, it's not like it's anything new for the Owner's Club info to be posted on the forum. It's not the first time.

I agree - it's obvious we can't be trusted - but I still have a problem with claims that Axiom has a responsibility to communicate updates to the public about something that they never announced to the public in the first place, just because *we* leaked it.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1002:53 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1003:42 PM

I got the call as well. I am not really sure what to do. I wasn't planning on bi-wiring or bi-amping for now but one day who knows. Are most of you waiting for the VP180s with bi-amping or don't really care? Does anybody here ever noticed any improvement by bi-wiring or bi-amping? Is it worth it to wait the extra week for it?

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1005:04 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1005:17 PM

I was swimming when I got my call and missed it. I only realized it when I saw the number was from Kanuck land. So I wasn't able to talk to them, but I would say that I would never bi-wire it, but if its supposed to be there it should be. So is the 8th and 15th what they told you bdpf? I hope it will be sooner because I am headed to the beach right about then. I'd hate to have to have someone pick it up for me.

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1009:38 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/02/1009:53 PM

Bruno, skip the bi-wiring terminals, which make no audibly significant electrical difference. If you want to keep alive the possibility of later selling it(as has been mentioned)to some deluded soul who thinks that bi-wiring is magical, then wait the extra time.

Re: VP180 - 06/03/1012:16 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/03/1009:20 AM

I figured I would throw in my opinion on the current VP-180 "situation".

When I first read about the center channel, I was PUMPED. I was in the middle of doing some upgrading and decided that I would set aside some of my $$ for this sucker. It is a good thing that the information "leaked" because I would have spent my whole budget and wouldn't be able to get one of these in the next month or so.

I have been dealing with Axiom for over six years after I purchased my first system blindly and have been treated like royalty the whole time. Recently I was torn between which type of inwall speaker to get and I had convinced myself I needed two pairs of M22's. When I talked to Brent he talked me out of getting two pairs and I just went with one pair of M22's and one pair of M2's. That is the kind of service that keeps me loyal to this company.

When I called an inquired about the VP180, I was told it should be ready to ship around the 5/31. We shouldn't be getting upset over a minor delay in shipping of a new product. I am just pumped to be getting one of these in the next month!

Re: VP180 - 06/03/1009:55 AM

I don't think anyone was upset about the delay itself, just that people weren't notified about it. Having said that, we were notified with the phone call just a day after they were supposed to ship so once again they were on top of it. I'll probably call back to tell them I don't care about the bi-wire option so I can get my new toy!

Re: VP180 - 06/04/1001:33 AM

I know a lot of you are very excited (and should be), but Axiom never did say you would have the speaker on the 31st. To be fair, I waited almost 5 months for mine, and I think another week or two of waiting (just to make sure everything is perfect) is really not too much to ask. It's just my opinion however, and I know a lot of you guys are chomping at the bit. Just hang in there, it will be worth the wait.

Re: VP180 - 06/06/1008:42 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/07/1006:44 AM

It's a night and day difference. The 180 blends in far better with the M80s than the 150 ever could. I also have the 180 turned down about 1.5db from my mains, whereas I needed to turn the 150 up about 1.5db. It's a much fuller sound.

Re: VP180 - 06/07/1008:44 PM

I just called and upgraded to VP180. I have had the VP150 for about 40 days. Luckily axiom is giving me full purchase value for the 150. Is anyone going to use the VP180s with M60s. I have M60s. Just curious.

Re: VP180 - 06/16/1009:27 PM

I'd get one if I were you. I am going to get one too. I have M80s but I would recommend it with M60s as well. Its big! It will just barely fit on my middle shelf of my tv stand. I am going to order one in rosewood natural satin just as soon as I pay off my last $100 to Bill Me Later that I used for a pair of QS8s. Also remember the VP-180 is 4 ohm so be sure your amp or receiver does 4 ohm loads. I will use the center channel pre-out from my Yamaha receiver into an Outlaw monoblock to power mine.

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1008:48 AM

Originally Posted By: Larry7995

I'd get one if I were you. I am going to get one too. I have M80s but I would recommend it with M60s as well. Its big! It will just barely fit on my middle shelf of my tv stand. I am going to order one in rosewood natural satin just as soon as I pay off my last $100 to Bill Me Later that I used for a pair of QS8s. Also remember the VP-180 is 4 ohm so be sure your amp or receiver does 4 ohm loads. I will use the center channel pre-out from my Yamaha receiver into an Outlaw monoblock to power mine.

you are right about all of those things larry. the space i have for the center will have about 1/4" on each side if i'm lucky, i've got exactly 40" end to end so i believe that i was meant to have this center! My center and the M80's will be powered by my Emotiva XPA-5 amp which is 4 ohm rated with plenty of juice! I am going to order the VP180 & a pair of M80's to go with it. the way things appear to be moving i expect i'll be able to place my order by either the end of this month or early next month. someone over at blu-ray.com in the axiom forum said he got his email from axiom that his center had shipped and that's good news for all of those waiting to either hear the status of their orders or are waiting to be able to place and order for this much sought after center!

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1011:29 AM

Dave, you have such a beautiful HT now it almost seems a sin to change anything, even for a VP180

re: my order, looks like I "missed it by *that* much".

I was working from home this morning because the accessory belt on my Magnum disintegrated on the way home yesterday. The battery kept the ignition & fuel pump running long enough to get me home but I wanted to get a good charge into it before heading into the dealer for repairs.

Yes the steering was a bit heavy

Knock on the door came while I was on a call; by the time I was able to disengage from the call and get to the front door all I saw was the back end of a Purolator truck pulling onto the road.

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1002:41 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1002:51 PM

Originally Posted By: Nachosgrande

Very interesting...is this Axiom's answer to the "Bigfoot" center channel that is offered by another manufacturer?

It’s Axiom’s answer to the calls from many of us that the previous lineup (VP100, VP150) were inadequate compared to the M80s. Specifically the project was started in response to a request from Steve to have one custom built. So it’s a project driven by customer demand rather than sales.

Though I do believe Alex (may be someone else) has said for years that Axiom should make a center like the “Bigfoot” and that AV123 should make a surround like the QS8.

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1003:23 PM

Originally Posted By: bridgman

Dave, you have such a beautiful HT now it almost seems a sin to change anything, even for a VP180

re: my order, looks like I "missed it by *that* much".

I was working from home this morning because the accessory belt on my Magnum disintegrated on the way home yesterday. The battery kept the ignition & fuel pump running long enough to get me home but I wanted to get a good charge into it before heading into the dealer for repairs.

Yes the steering was a bit heavy

Knock on the door came while I was on a call; by the time I was able to disengage from the call and get to the front door all I saw was the back end of a Purolator truck pulling onto the road.

Oh well. Available for pickup after 6, assuming I have a car by then.

there is no way i would have missed that delivery, and you were at home, come on man!?! that just doesn't look good. i don't care who i would have been talking to, i would have dropped that phone or said hold on or just taken the phone to the door but i wouldn't have missed that delivery. Or I would never have told you all that i did I'd hang up on my mom to have gotten that delivery and i love my mom! she would have been mad, but, once she saw and heard that center she would understand!

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1008:52 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1009:58 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/17/1011:07 PM

Originally Posted By: htnut

Good news! My wife said my VP180 arrived today!

Bad news! Working late so won't be able to get to it until tomorrow.

Oh the cruelty...

You're in Richmond Hill and got yours! Men I'm jealous, I'm in Stouffville and from the tracking number, mine was in Pickering at 8.30 am and is STILL in Pickering! What a F%%% is Purlator doing?This only thing I could figure out is that they saw that it was an Axiom speaker and decided to audition it themselves first, that's the only logical explanation so I'll probably get it tomorrow

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1001:16 AM

I'm in Stouffville and from the tracking number, mine was in Pickering at 8.30 am and is STILL in Pickering! What a F%%% is Purlator doing?

That's Pickering, Idaho. Patience, grasshopper.

And yes, I'm just yanking your chain

Originally Posted By: solarrdadd

or has a working camera, or have hooked it up into their systems yet!

I imagine everyone is frantically cleaning up and dusting their HT area so that they can post pictures without looking like slovenly pigs (as opposed to normal pigs, who have very tidy home theaters). Or maybe it's just me...

Actually by the time I got my car back from the dealer the local Purolator depot had closed, so I guess I'm picking up tomorrow. And my tooth still hurts like *(&^%(*&^*(&%*(!!!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:32 AM

Originally Posted By: bdpf

Originally Posted By: htnut

Good news! My wife said my VP180 arrived today!

Bad news! Working late so won't be able to get to it until tomorrow.

Oh the cruelty...

You're in Richmond Hill and got yours! Men I'm jealous, I'm in Stouffville and from the tracking number, mine was in Pickering at 8.30 am and is STILL in Pickering! What a F%%% is Purlator doing?This only thing I could figure out is that they saw that it was an Axiom speaker and decided to audition it themselves first, that's the only logical explanation so I'll probably get it tomorrow

Well hopefully they wont just leave yours on you front door step with no signature like they did mine .

It sat out there for two hours until i asked my daughter when she got up to bring it in.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1009:53 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1009:57 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:13 AM

Not a fan neither. Specially for the people that already have M80s V2, the look will be different, so now the wife will complain From the pictures that Steve had posted, I was under the impression that the drivers looked the same as the M80s.I guess this will be the look of the M80s V3.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:31 AM

I know for sure that the wife will be bothered by that. And yes, as far as I know, this info was not disclosed. Now what will be interesting is to know how much will Axiom give me for my 5 months old V2s once the V3s come out. But it still bothers me to upgrade just for looks. We'll see.BTW, I like to keep the grills off.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:34 AM

My natural cherry (semigloss, charcoal, chrome) VP180 is scheduled for arrival on Wednesday, 6/23. Will I be the first possessor of a VaSSallo one?!

This will go with my HGC M80s as well as M22 rears and an EP800. The rears and sub are in the natural cherry. When the V3 M80s are released I will trade in my HGC V2s for natural cherry V3s to achieve a a matched set!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:35 AM

You also have to take into consideration if you were planning on having the grilles off the VP180 it will still look different from the other speakers because it does not have any grill mounting holes - it looks like they now have changed to magnets so the VP180 will not perfectly match aesthetically to your older speakers.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:54 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1011:03 AM

The thing is if they do make the color change switch with the drivers to all models any any past promotional articles or reviews in the past decade (any form of marketing really) with pictures on the internet are less relevant (which is quite substantial) . For a ID company, internet based research is the most important source of information for consumers. Any past reviews with pictures are no longer accurate and will provide misinformation to potential consumers as well as a level of confusion regarding purchasing.

It is quite a blunder from a marketing standpoint IMO to make such a change even at first glance it is something as small as this.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1011:05 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1011:11 AM

I don't think it's a blunder, per se, but I do agree that folks who already have black-capped Axioms will find it annoying. It looks shocking at first glance because we're so used to old look. For people who haven't been ogling Axiom speakers as long as we have, I think it might be a positive change.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1011:58 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1012:17 PM

I really like the new drivers. BTW, what Axiom has told us on the CC is that the change is purely cosmetic. I had been imagining them as bowl drivers like the subs, but I like the poking out dustcap better.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1012:23 PM

IMO, going a solid color would look better with the bowl drivers, but that's just me. Having a change in direction with the same color doesn't look right (again, just me, everyone has different tastes).

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1001:13 PM

Originally Posted By: kcarlile

Maybe someone likes the color! Imagine that, not everyone has the same taste as you!

Exactly! It only acts to hurt current loyal owners if matching the equipment is important to them and they want to upgrade and it also adds a level of misinformation as well as confusion to any new customers that are researching their products online which is their main form of marketing. If there were sound quality improvements I could see rationalizing such a decision but if it is based solely on cosmetics not everyone is going to see it as an improvement anyways especially individuals that currently own product and want to upgrade. When you have over a decade of marketing behind an entire lineup of speakers and it no longer reflects it from a aesthetic standpoint it puts into question how relevant all the marketing is behind the product currently which is being sold today.

I see this as more cost/benefit analysis than anything else. And the costs involved outweigh the benefits IMO.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1001:22 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1001:41 PM

i just saw a pic of a buddy who recieved his VP180.. i love the look of the driver. i personally think they should change all the drivers.

i have the M60,VP150,QS8's and EP500, so i can relate to how some folks might feel. I personaly don't like the way my set looks with the grills off, i think someone said it... they do look dated! but then again i didn't buy them for the looks. but for some folks it could be an issue! i've read hear and there some folks just don't like the way they look. granted bad move for them, but it would also be a bad move for axiom to not modernize a bit.

for the future axiom owners if all the drivers look like the vp180's good for them. it's icing on the cake, they'll have performance and looks, not to mention i think it will attract some folks. for instance i love my EP500's performance and the look of the driver, it's seeexxxy. if i had the look of the drivers of the VP180 or my EP500 on my set i honestly think i would leave the grills off, they just look really cool.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1001:54 PM

This is just my opinion having asked Axiom to be gracious enough to build one of these for me. My intent was to have a speaker that "matched" my M80s. My original intent was of course to match them sonically, not knowing that a change in colo(u)r was in the works. If I wanted I true match, I would expect the same colo(u)r scheme.

My wife asked me if I would be upset if mine looked like the released ones. I said I would initially, until I heard it, then it would not bother me as much, but still probably bother me a little. I'm a very anal electrical engineer, so even with the grilles on I would know they did not "match".

Again, several people here have had them for quite a bit now... Any opinions on the sound?

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1002:02 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Exactly! It only acts to hurt current loyal owners if matching the equipment is important to them and they want to upgrade

I think Axiom made this change in response to feedback -- much of which probably came from the customer survey they conducted last year, from existing customers. Matching is a valid concern, though, and I have a feeling Axiom will be responsive to this and allow a choice of driver styles to those wishing to match existing speakers.

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

it also adds a level of misinformation as well as confusion to any new customers that are researching their products online which is their main form of marketing.

Here I completely disagree with you. How can Axiom changing a product's appearance be construed as misinformation? They are not in direct control of review sites. If a company is overly concerned about having their current line-up match existing information about their older products, then they'd never change a thing and would stagnate.

The wonderful thing about selling speakers online is that customers must come to your website to buy them (unless they're buying used from a 3d party). I'm sure Axiom will update its product pictures to reflect the new driver style once the other lines are updated to v3. (Notice that the VP180 does not yet have its own product page.) I'm also sure various audio sites will take note of the apparently controversial change.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1002:27 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1002:29 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1002:34 PM

Originally Posted By: pmbuko

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Exactly! It only acts to hurt current loyal owners if matching the equipment is important to them and they want to upgrade

I think Axiom made this change in response to feedback -- much of which probably came from the customer survey they conducted last year, from existing customers. Matching is a valid concern, though, and I have a feeling Axiom will be responsive to this and allow a choice of driver styles to those wishing to match existing speakers.

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

it also adds a level of misinformation as well as confusion to any new customers that are researching their products online which is their main form of marketing.

Here I completely disagree with you. How can Axiom changing a product's appearance be construed as misinformation? They are not in direct control of review sites. If a company is overly concerned about having their current line-up match existing information about their older products, then they'd never change a thing and would stagnate.

The wonderful thing about selling speakers online is that customers must come to your website to buy them (unless they're buying used from a 3d party). I'm sure Axiom will update its product pictures to reflect the new driver style once the other lines are updated to v3. (Notice that the VP180 does not yet have its own product page.) I'm also sure various audio sites will take note of the apparently controversial change.

Well of course they are not in control except for what they send out for review and their online advertisements. However, a small noticeable change such as this will conflict with a decade of internet marketing and when one does research the first hits bring up all older reviews. Its noticeable and it changes the look of the speaker and if there is no improvement on sound quality I can't rationalize the change since "looks" are ultimately subjective. A new consumer looking for speakers not familiar with Axiom how will they interpret pictures that conflict from their own research and that which is present on their website.

If these changes indeed happen and if they are in place, I personally think any advertisements they currently use like that beautiful picture of the dual EP500's, M80's and VP150 construe as false advertising.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1002:37 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

If these changes indeed happen and if they are in place, I personally think any advertisements they currently use like that beautiful picture of the dual EP500's, M80's and VP150 construe as false advertising.

This is so far out in left field that I honestly don't know if you're being serious.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1003:09 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1003:30 PM

All of our current production is now with the dust caps that match the cones and magnetic grilles. The web site will change some time next week to reflect this. The shear number of pictures that need to change all at once turned into an overwhelming job. We basically need to go from all pictures on the site having black dust caps and grille pins to all pictures on the site having aluminum dust caps and no grille pins; and it has to happen all at the same time. It is a massive undertaking.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1004:09 PM

once again i think going with this new desing is a great idea. it looks modern and it will attract new customers. to me with the black dust caps it almost looks no different than a SONY speaker!!! and i don't want to offend sony or it's fans. i have sony stuff. just saying it's nice to see looks being matched with performance.

check out other mid level high end speakers. they all have an interesting look not a dated one. and to a regular consumer it going to equate to better.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1004:30 PM

Whats with the white dust cap? Not a fan of the look of the new drivers. I like the contrast of the black and white better.

Have to agree with the good Dr. that I don’t care for the new look.

When I first started catching up with this thread I didn’t understand what was up because I happen to like the look of all aluminum drivers (the ones that are completely concave) but when I saw the picture with that dimple in the middle it just looks silly. The contrast of the black dust cap looked much better if the cone surface isn’t going to be totally smooth.

My grills stay on unless I demo and someone wants to see what the drivers look like so as long as they sound the same I guess it doesn’t matter.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1004:36 PM

while all this dust cap conversation is important and all i'm sure, i am still waiting to hear someone give their initial or full review of the center who has it. i would hope that one of those lucky few has already connected it up to their system, calibrated it and listened to and watched some movies, SACD's, LP's, CD's gaming or something by now and there would be a nice rush to let the rest of know what we might be in for!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1005:12 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1005:51 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1006:23 PM

I got you covered Ken ... since everybody seems to be engrossed with the color of the dust covers, I'll PM you my personal impression of how the speaker sounds with the rest of the system, whenever they arrive.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1006:40 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1006:43 PM

Originally Posted By: RickF

I got you covered Ken ... since everybody seems to be engrossed with the color of the dust covers, I'll PM you my personal impression of how the speaker sounds with the rest of the system, whenever they arrive.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:03 PM

wow, i'm waiting to hear from the fortunate few who got to order their centers first, receive them first now i'm reading that the info is gonna be pm'd to certain people about their thoughts of the speaker and how it sounds. and this is because some folks say they don't necessarily like the look of the new driver. this is terrible. i can't believe this is going on here. i thought this was supposed to be the axiom site where axiom folks got together and had a good time about, well, axiom. i guess i was mistaken.

i do hope someone else who is lucky enough to have gotten one of these, please post a review of the speaker, please and if it will help, please again.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:14 PM

Originally Posted By: solarrdadd

wow, i'm waiting to hear from the fortunate few who got to order their centers first, receive them first now i'm reading that the info is gonna be pm'd to certain people about their thoughts of the speaker and how it sounds. and this is because some folks say they don't necessarily like the look of the new driver. this is terrible. i can't believe this is going on here. i thought this was supposed to be the axiom site where axiom folks got together and had a good time about, well, axiom. i guess i was mistaken.

i do hope someone else who is lucky enough to have gotten one of these, please post a review of the speaker, please and if it will help, please again.

I'm under the impression RickF is just joking around about the whole PM thing.

As to opinions on the dust cap et al, well that is just life and if everyone agreed on every little matter discussions wouldn't be very productive and life would just get boring.

I think we can all agree that Axiom makes a terrific product and I expect nothing but great things about the VP180.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:28 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Originally Posted By: solarrdadd

wow, i'm waiting to hear from the fortunate few who got to order their centers first, receive them first now i'm reading that the info is gonna be pm'd to certain people about their thoughts of the speaker and how it sounds. and this is because some folks say they don't necessarily like the look of the new driver. this is terrible. i can't believe this is going on here. i thought this was supposed to be the axiom site where axiom folks got together and had a good time about, well, axiom. i guess i was mistaken.

i do hope someone else who is lucky enough to have gotten one of these, please post a review of the speaker, please and if it will help, please again.

I'm under the impression RickF is just joking around about the whole PM thing.

As to opinions on the dust cap et al, well that is just life and if everyone agreed on every little matter discussions wouldn't be very productive and life would just get boring.

I think we can all agree that Axiom makes a terrific product and I expect nothing but great things about the VP180.

i have no doubt that they have made a good product in the vp180, just want to hear from some owners.

i am also fine about the color of the drivers on the vp180 too. at first i thought that it was going to look funny with the vp180 having one color drivers and the M80's (i'm gonna order those too) would have different color drivers.

axiom has spoke out that all their drivers will now have the same color and match (now that doesn't help folks who already own axioms and want them to match, i'm not sure what the company is going to do for them)so, since they (the three fronts i want) will match, it's no longer a deal for me.

the biggest and most important thing to me is how do those who have it like it. over the past 2 days i have seen here and over at other forums people who have received the speaker and as of yet, no one has given that first impression review; and no i don't count "it's nice and i like the way it sounds" as a first impression or a review! but that is the only thing i saw someone say about it and that was sad!

again, i'm hoping to hear something of substance and depth about the new flagship center over the coarse of the weekend. it will only help the sales and the desire to want one and to further add to the interest of potential new customers to the axiom family; like myself!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:38 PM

Moving on from the dust cap colour controversy...

So as for the speaker...this thing is LARGE...can you guess the size of my TV? It's also heavy and hurts when it slips out of your hands and hits you in the foot because you need to save it from hitting the floor...maybe they could put some inserted handles on the side like my Plasma has on the back...as for sound in my limited listening so far it seems to match up pretty well with the 80's and dialouge is crystal clear. Will do some music listening later on.

Very happy with the magnetic grill, the dustcap colour and the finish. Good job Axiom, another winner, winner, chicken dinner!!!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:43 PM

Originally Posted By: Lorenzo1000

Moving on from the dust cap colour controversy...

So as for the speaker...this thing is LARGE...can you guess the size of my TV? It's also heavy and hurts when it slips out of your hands and hits you in the foot because you need to save it from hitting the floor...maybe they could put some inserted handles on the side like my Plasma has on the back...as for sound in my limited listening so far it seems to match up pretty well with the 80's and dialouge is crystal clear. Will do some music listening later on.

Very happy with the magnetic grill, the dustcap colour and the finish. Good job Axiom, another winner, winner, chicken dinner!!!

great, the first review of one of the new owners on the axiom site, and another positive one. that thing looks great too. you are the second one that i have seen and they are both black, i'll gather that is a popular color the obvious answer is you all wanted to match existing black fronts! glad to hear you like what you have heard so far and i/we awaite your musical first impression. one question, is the measurement of the speaker length actually 39.5" exactly and also, did yours ship in a M80 box like my friends did?

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1007:49 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:00 PM

M80 box and exactly 39.5 inches wide. It did come with a very nice glossy colour instruction manual, rubber feet and spikes.

thank you so much, again, it looks great, i can only imagine it's sound! hopefully, i about a month i'll have my own and a pair of M80's to match too!

I'll be driving mine with my emotiva XPA-5 amp @ 300wpc 4 ohms continuous via my 5507 pre-amp, what you have driving yours, do you think it's enough power or do you think you need more, i know they have a high sensitivity rating?(91+) I know that XPA-5 is plenty!

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:08 PM

M80 box and exactly 39.5 inches wide. It did come with a very nice glossy colour instruction manual, rubber feet and spikes.

thank you so much, again, it looks great, i can only imagine it's sound! hopefully, i about a month i'll have my own and a pair of M80's to match too!

I'll be driving mine with my emotiva XPA-5 amp @ 300wpc 4 ohms continuous via my 5507 pre-amp, what you have driving yours, do you think it's enough power or do you think you need more, i know they have a high sensitivity rating?(91+) I know that XPA-5 is plenty!

I am using an ATI 1506 in bridged mode(3 X 450 bridged) for the front 3 channels with my Denon 3808CI as a preamp. I'm sure your amp is plenty powerful for that setup.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:22 PM

M80 box and exactly 39.5 inches wide. It did come with a very nice glossy colour instruction manual, rubber feet and spikes.

thank you so much, again, it looks great, i can only imagine it's sound! hopefully, i about a month i'll have my own and a pair of M80's to match too!

I'll be driving mine with my emotiva XPA-5 amp @ 300wpc 4 ohms continuous via my 5507 pre-amp, what you have driving yours, do you think it's enough power or do you think you need more, i know they have a high sensitivity rating?(91+) I know that XPA-5 is plenty!

I am using an ATI 1506 in bridged mode(3 X 450 bridged) for the front 3 channels with my Denon 3808CI as a preamp. I'm sure your amp is plenty powerful for that setup.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:25 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:32 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

OK, sorry to get this offtrack again... but what is the policy going to be regarding replacement drivers for the older versions?

no problem, i already put that question out there. i haven't heard anything so, guess we'll have to wait until we hear from axiom. perhaps for folks with registered (guessing that you can register or it is done for you at the time of purchase) gear that has the "older style/coloring" of the drivers they might just make a vp180 for them with the original drivers that would match what you have. that makes the most sense to me. it would only be offered to you if you have proof (via serial numbers or invoices) of prior purchases. everyone else, on everything else gets the new stuff.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:45 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1008:55 PM

Well I've been using it like this for a few years and as I said nothing in the manual about it...the only warning in the manual is in regards to making sure your speakers can handle the output of the amp.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1009:50 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1010:48 PM

I'm going to jump on the aesthetics train here and say that I don't care which style I have as long as all of my speakers match. Being a grill off listener, I'm not going to lie, it matters to me. I'm hoping Axiom will give us existing customers a choice to change to the old drivers, or give us a 'deal' on the new all aluminum drivers for our other speakers. I for one would be willing to swap my drivers out with the new ones and be a happy camper, I kinda like the new ones.

How about it Axiom, how much $ for four bass and four midrange drivers? cheers.

Re: VP180 - 06/18/1011:05 PM

I agree, I don't really care about which one I have as long as they're all the same. Either putting the old driver on the VP180 or the new one on the M80s will do as long as we get the opportunity to do one or the other.I received mine today but I'm not home this weekend so it's still in the box. I have to wait until Sunday evening to play with my new toy . I also am curious to hear the first impression though.

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1003:40 PM

Seriously this has to be a tease... No reviews of the new speaker after more than a day?

i agree, while there have been pictures uploaded by one person and a quick line or two, no serious reviews have been given, lots of grumbling about the color of the drivers, but no real reviews.

i am hopefull that the weekend still has another day to go and we will see a serious review or two before it's over. with more to come next week as more folks get their center and want to share with the rest of us what we have to look forward to.

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1005:38 PM

Once I figured out how expensive the rosewood model was ($1120), I decided my Boston Cherry system actually looks just fine ($695). Going to order mine in about a week or two.

i don't want to get you wrong, are you saying that the boston cherry finish on the vp180 is $695 and the rosewood finish is $1120 or did i miss something?

sorry if i got it wrong, that's why i'm asking

That is exactly what he is saying. Axiom charges a heavy premium on the custom finishes so that is why you see such a price disparity between the rosewood finish and the stock vinyl finish (boston cherry).

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1006:43 PM

Once I figured out how expensive the rosewood model was ($1120), I decided my Boston Cherry system actually looks just fine ($695). Going to order mine in about a week or two.

i don't want to get you wrong, are you saying that the boston cherry finish on the vp180 is $695 and the rosewood finish is $1120 or did i miss something?

sorry if i got it wrong, that's why i'm asking

That is exactly what he is saying. Axiom charges a heavy premium on the custom finishes so that is why you see such a price disparity between the rosewood finish and the stock vinyl finish (boston cherry).

thanks, since there is no advertised vp180 on the site yet, i didn't have the benefit of knowing what the prices were, that's why i asked. I'll gather that the rosewood finish is more exotic and complex than the boston cherry?

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1007:04 PM

Once I figured out how expensive the rosewood model was ($1120), I decided my Boston Cherry system actually looks just fine ($695). Going to order mine in about a week or two.

i don't want to get you wrong, are you saying that the boston cherry finish on the vp180 is $695 and the rosewood finish is $1120 or did i miss something?

sorry if i got it wrong, that's why i'm asking

That is exactly what he is saying. Axiom charges a heavy premium on the custom finishes so that is why you see such a price disparity between the rosewood finish and the stock vinyl finish (boston cherry).

thanks, since there is no advertised vp180 on the site yet, i didn't have the benefit of knowing what the prices were, that's why i asked. I'll gather that the rosewood finish is more exotic and complex than the boston cherry?

Pretty much. My understanding of rosewood is that of a wood veneer finish.

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1007:25 PM

I think you pay a 20% premium for Rosewood. There is another 20% premium for a piano finish if you select that. Having bought Rosewood before and "attempted" my hand at piano finishing, I'm surprised they only charge a 20%.

For example, I just bought a 4' X 8' sheet of straight grain 20 mil cherry veneer for $65. The rosewood, in a lower grade than the cherry was $250. Those are my contractor rates with my supplier too.

A piano finish takes weeks to do properly. You finish sand with 600 grit then buff with a polishing pad. Apply stain, buff again, then coat with clear. Buff again, coat. Do this no less than 10 times, with at least 12 hours of dry time in between coats.

Probably more info than anyone wants, but now you have one more data point for formulating opinions......

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1007:42 PM

Originally Posted By: michael_d

I think you pay a 20% premium for Rosewood. There is another 20% premium for a piano finish if you select that. Having bought Rosewood before and "attempted" my hand at piano finishing, I'm surprised they only charge a 20%.

I'm not sure that is accurate at least in the case of the VP180 example above.

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1009:39 PM

The VP180 is up on the site, that is how I knew the price. I bought the Axiom speakers because I didn't have a pile of money but I wanted excellent sound and I am happy with Boston Cherry. I don't need the custom wood even though it is beautiful.

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1010:04 PM

Re: VP180 - 06/19/1010:28 PM

i am so happy to see that this thing is now on the site! i am hoping that somewhere in the very near future they list the option for the 4 binding post. i know that 2 binding post is the default the ability to get the optional 4 is not listed. i emailed them a little while ago. perhaps i'll get a response tomorrow or monday. if anyone already knows the answer to this a reply would be very nice. i'll place my order at that time and it will also include a pair of m80 towers!

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1002:01 PM

Hi Terzaghi,

Everything in our line now has aluminum dust caps and magnetic grilles. The only exception being the in-wall products. They will remain with grille pins because the access to the screws for tightening the arms wall are in the female grille plugs.

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1004:28 PM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Originally Posted By: michael_d

I think you pay a 20% premium for Rosewood. There is another 20% premium for a piano finish if you select that. Having bought Rosewood before and "attempted" my hand at piano finishing, I'm surprised they only charge a 20%.

I'm not sure that is accurate at least in the case of the VP180 example above.

What's not accurate? My math is pretty close, so clarify what you disagree with.

VP180 in real wood finish is $940. Rosewood is an additional $180 (roughly 19%) A piano finish is an additional $194 (roughly 20%)

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1005:01 PM

Originally Posted By: michael_d

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Originally Posted By: michael_d

I think you pay a 20% premium for Rosewood. There is another 20% premium for a piano finish if you select that. Having bought Rosewood before and "attempted" my hand at piano finishing, I'm surprised they only charge a 20%.

I'm not sure that is accurate at least in the case of the VP180 example above.

What's not accurate? My math is pretty close, so clarify what you disagree with.

VP180 in real wood finish is $940. Rosewood is an additional $180 (roughly 19%) A piano finish is an additional $194 (roughly 20%)

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1005:30 PM

Originally Posted By: michael_d

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Originally Posted By: michael_d

I think you pay a 20% premium for Rosewood. There is another 20% premium for a piano finish if you select that. Having bought Rosewood before and "attempted" my hand at piano finishing, I'm surprised they only charge a 20%.

I'm not sure that is accurate at least in the case of the VP180 example above.

What's not accurate? My math is pretty close, so clarify what you disagree with.

VP180 in real wood finish is $940. Rosewood is an additional $180 (roughly 19%) A piano finish is an additional $194 (roughly 20%)

You didn't take into account going from $695 - $940. The premium for rosewood in piano finish from the stock vinyl (or boston cherry as in this case) is much higher than 40% (20%+20% as you state) . In total it is more like a 60% premium. Your starting point has to be the base price or MSRP of $695 in this case when looking at the premium paid for upgrading to a different finish.

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1007:28 PM

both in the standard boston cherry finishes. i hope to find out in a day or two how much longer the order will take to ship because of the option to the center channel.

once i get them i'll do a full review for the entire front 3.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 06/20/1011:58 PM

Originally Posted By: Ian

Hi Terzaghi,

Everything in our line now has aluminum dust caps and magnetic grilles. The only exception being the in-wall products. They will remain with grille pins because the access to the screws for tightening the arms wall are in the female grille plugs.

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1001:48 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1008:51 AM

i just ordered the vp180 & a pair of m80's 2 days ago. i know they will all come with the all white drivers. i'm wondering will the m80's come with the magnetic grill covers t match the vp180, does anyone know? perhaps that has been made clear by axiom already and someone here knows that.thanks.

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1009:57 AM

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1002:42 PM

Picked up the VP180 from Purolator yesterday. As usual, the box was demolished and the speaker was fine. There was a tiny smudge on the side where the box was torn open but it wiped off with a damp sponge.

I mucked up my elbow on the weekend (never start a brushcutter while carrying it - doesn't hurt the brushcutter but it's murder on the tendons in your arm) so haven't carried it up the stairs yet... so just cell phone pictures on the hall floor so far.

First impressions - it's *big*. I haven't seen M80s in a home environment yet, just lots of M60s, so the depth of the speaker was a bit of a surprise :

The magnetic grills look good and hold on much more securely than I expected. The grill was pink (probably called tan to make it sound manly) vs the black on my other speakers, but when I looked back at the order there was no mention of grill colour. Hopefully I didn't just forget to click on something... and hopefully I can arrange a swap.

Anyways, here's the front view :

The varying colour across the speaker is due to poor lighting, not flaws in the finish. There are threaded holes for four feet on the bottom of the speaker (or for the stands maybe ?).

That's all I have for now, maybe I'll feel brave enough to drag it up the stairs tonight

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1003:02 PM

Congrats, that looks sweet and thanks for posting the pics, that's the same finish that I ordered;) I hope you enjoy that bad boy!!

FYI, for us older Axiom owners, I'm working on a DIY magnetic grill conversion. I'll be done with it next week, just waiting on a few parts. I'll be more than happy to share pics and info when completed.Cheers

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1003:05 PM

Originally Posted By: bridgman

Picked up the VP180 from Purolator yesterday. As usual, the box was demolished and the speaker was fine. There was a tiny smudge on the side where the box was torn open but it wiped off with a damp sponge.

I mucked up my elbow on the weekend (never start a brushcutter while carrying it - doesn't hurt the brushcutter but it's murder on the tendons in your arm) so haven't carried it up the stairs yet... so just cell phone pictures on the hall floor so far.

First impressions - it's *big*. I haven't seen M80s in a home environment yet, just lots of M60s, so the depth of the speaker was a bit of a surprise :

The magnetic grills look good and hold on much more securely than I expected. The grill was pink (probably called tan to make it sound manly) vs the black on my other speakers, but when I looked back at the order there was no mention of grill colour. Hopefully I didn't just forget to click on something... and hopefully I can arrange a swap.

Anyways, here's the front view :

The varying colour across the speaker is due to poor lighting, not flaws in the finish. There are threaded holes for four feet on the bottom of the speaker (or for the stands maybe ?).

That's all I have for now, maybe I'll feel brave enough to drag it up the stairs tonight

Congrats on the new center .

At least Purolator didn't leave it on your front door with no signature like they did to me .

I found it very awkward to carry because my top shelf is glass and had to make sure i laid it down gently .

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1003:30 PM

Mine was on my porch as well when my dad went to wait on it for me. (I'm on vacation) SO at least it was only on the porch for 15 min. before dad got there. Anyway, I can't wait to get home and hook this puppy up, OR should I say hook up this FULL GROWN GREAT DANE!!! Still looking forward to hearing everyone's impressions!!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1004:23 PM

Originally Posted By: bridgman

Picked up the VP180 from Purolator yesterday.

The magnetic grills look good and hold on much more securely than I expected.

Congrats bridgman, you are going to love how it sounds I still can't get over the full, rich, deep sound this speaker delivers. I know it's large, but if anyone has the room for it they would be wise to get one.

Nice pics, the finish you chose looks great with the all white drivers. The magnetic grilles are great too. Initially I was indifferent to the mag grilles but I must admit now I am a huge fan of them. They are very secure, they snap into place easily and quickly, and the speaker (when the grilles are removed) looks way better without the holes IMHO. I'm so impressed with them that I'm in the process of upgrading all of my speakers to the ones with the magnetic grilles.

Re: VP180 - 06/22/1005:57 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1007:37 PM

OK. So I'm a worry wart. My new VP180 came a day earlier than expected and sat most of the day outside in high heat and humidity (about 95 degrees). Any reason to be concerned about the materials standing up to that (glues and whatnot)?

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1007:51 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1007:53 PM

I must say, I'm surprised at the number of people that have jumped on this speaker. I wouldn't have thought many would have room for it.

Here's a question. Given that the center channel is mainly for dialog, how low does the speaker really have to go? A quick search shows that the lowest fundamental in the male voice is around 85 Hz, do you really need a speaker that goes down to 36 Hz?

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:00 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:07 PM

I know I should be patient, but are there any updates for the old/new driver situation? I'm really hoping that Axiom will allow us an upgrade to the new ones, I'm really starting to like the looks of them, especially in the light maple;)

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:18 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:20 PM

IF they are (and we don't know that they are), they'll probably be a bit happier to do it at the factory then to ship you a whole new set of drivers. So I would certainly advise calling them ASAP.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:22 PM

Originally Posted By: fredk

I must say, I'm surprised at the number of people that have jumped on this speaker. I wouldn't have thought many would have room for it.

Here's a question. Given that the center channel is mainly for dialog, how low does the speaker really have to go? A quick search shows that the lowest fundamental in the male voice is around 85 Hz, do you really need a speaker that goes down to 36 Hz?

There's way more coming out of the centre speaker than just dialog. Disconnect all other speakers and play material with just the centre and you might be surprised at how much content there is aside from the dialog.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:23 PM

I don't KNOW. Sometimes, there is a perception that Axiom staff closely monitor these forums and respond HERE to customer service questions. I do not believe that is the case. The only/best way for you to get solid information is to call Axiom directly.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:24 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:47 PM

Originally Posted By: kmcalvano

I know I should be patient, but are there any updates for the old/new driver situation? I'm really hoping that Axiom will allow us an upgrade to the new ones, I'm really starting to like the looks of them, especially in the light maple;)

I don't think the old to new driver is as simple as a swap. It is not just a dust cap color change. You would also need to change the crossover.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1008:50 PM

Originally Posted By: htnut

There's way more coming out of the centre speaker than just dialog. Disconnect all other speakers and play material with just the centre and you might be surprised at how much content there is aside from the dialog.

I'm going to have to give that a try.

I once got my mains to produce only the surround material. That was quite interesting.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1009:00 PM

Originally Posted By: fredk

Originally Posted By: kmcalvano

I know I should be patient, but are there any updates for the old/new driver situation? I'm really hoping that Axiom will allow us an upgrade to the new ones, I'm really starting to like the looks of them, especially in the light maple;)

I don't think the old to new driver is as simple as a swap. It is not just a dust cap color change. You would also need to change the crossover.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1009:14 PM

To change the drivers, you MAY also need to change wiring and crossovers. And conversely, you MAY need to change drivers and wiring if you wish to change a crossover. It really depends on what version you currently have. We have had numerous conversations over this topic on the boards lately. I’m not positive one way or the other if the all white drivers are the same as V2 drivers, but think not.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1010:15 PM

Well the dust cap change is already causing confusion and misinformation. Wait what will happen that are not in the know . I'll wait till Axiom responds about how they will handle driver replacements for the older versions to further comment.

From a purely cosmetic standpoint, the new all aluminum drivers would look absolutely ridiculous with the older drivers with the black dust cap and from my own personal standpoint would not be happy if I have ever have to replace any of the drivers and they are the new all aluminum cones.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1010:43 PM

OK, so I sent an email to Axiom yesterday addressing this matter and here is the response I got:

"So the easiest thing for us to do would be just to swap out your VP180 woofers and you can send those ones back with just the cost of the shipping, if you want to change your other speakers to the new drivers we would have to know the serial # on your M80's so we can figure out what you would need to upgrade them, and last of all, we are putting on the site in a couple of weeks a new program for upgrading your old speakers, so you will be able to sell your old speakers and use the money to buy new ones."

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1010:50 PM

Originally Posted By: bdpf

OK, so I sent an email to Axiom yesterday addressing this matter and here is the response I got:

"So the easiest thing for us to do would be just to swap out your VP180 woofers and you can send those ones back with just the cost of the shipping, if you want to change your other speakers to the new drivers we would have to know the serial # on your M80's so we can figure out what you would need to upgrade them, and last of all, we are putting on the site in a couple of weeks a new program for upgrading your old speakers, so you will be able to sell your old speakers and use the money to buy new ones."

Hope this helps.

Thanks BDPF, but this matter is still a little confusing for me regarding driver replacements. Does the bolded part refer to taking out the new aluminum cones and sending them back for replacements for the older drivers (black dust cap)? And while we are talking about versions does it just refer to the M80ti to M80 V2 or does the ti to V2 correspond to all models when changing to the new all aluminum cones?

Thanks!

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1010:51 PM

Well, for anyone interested in a VP180 with BLACK caps, I know for a fact that the white capped drivers can be swapped for the black capped ones without any issue.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/22/1010:56 PM

The way I understand it is:- If you want the VP180 with white/black drivers, there is no problem, they'll send you the black/white and you return the all-white.- If you want your other speakers to have the all-white drivers, then they need to know your serial number so they can know if there is other components that need to be replaced in order to work with the all-white drivers (crossover maybe?)

Re: VP180 - 06/23/1001:58 AM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1006:53 AM

The "new" woofers with aluminum dustcaps are functionally identical to the black dustcap version used in the V2 series models, so they can be swapped out directly. For this reason we will be keeping a stockpile of black dustcaps in order to replace drivers for service purposes.

Andrew

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

Originally Posted By: htnut

Well, for anyone interested in a VP180 with BLACK caps, I know for a fact that the white capped drivers can be swapped for the black capped ones without any issue.

Yes. But it is a matter of Axiom deciding to continue to manufacture and supply them or not and for how long (till they run out of current inventory???). That is what is not clear at this point.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:52 AM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:58 AM

Ok, so I'm assuming us older ti guys are going to be swapping cross overs too. If so, I don't mind doing some soldering. I'm probably going to change to the new ones now as I'm sure it will be inevitable in the future. Thanks for all the info.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1008:16 AM

Originally Posted By: kmcalvano

Ok, so I'm assuming us older ti guys are going to be swapping cross overs too. If so, I don't mind doing some soldering. I'm probably going to change to the new ones now as I'm sure it will be inevitable in the future. Thanks for all the info.

I can see costs escalating if you are swapping both the crossovers and woofers. It might not be that cost effective of a solution for such an older version. The crossover is substantial on the M80. Depending how much experience you have with a soldering iron and taking apart speakers without damaging the finish, it can be a lot of work as well.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1009:46 AM

Actually, I think it would be fun if Axiom offered a kit that would allow me to replace the drivers and crossovers in my system... essentially going from Ti models to V3s without purchasing new cabinets, the downtime of shipping them back and forth and the costs of shipping the cabinets.

Some downloadable (.PDF) instructions and a little time with a soldering gun would provide for some renewed "pride of ownership" in addition to the refined sound and updated looks as well.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1010:02 AM

Somebody was given a price quote a while back for the VP150 crossover including shipping costs and it was around $70 IIRC. The M80 crossover will be more expensive than that and multiply that by 2. I'm not sure what they charge for drivers including shipping but lets say an average cost of $35 per 5.25"/6.25" driver to keeps things simple. The 5.25" being estimated less than $35 and the 6.25" estimated as more than $35.

If you do the math for the M80 with a crossover X 2 and woofers X 8 you are looking at a pretty hefty cost involved for the upgrade and this is probably a low ball estimate.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1011:06 AM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1011:20 AM

Originally Posted By: MarkSJohnson

Actually, I think it would be fun if Axiom offered a kit that would allow me to replace the drivers and crossovers in my system... essentially going from Ti models to V3s without purchasing new cabinets, the downtime of shipping them back and forth and the costs of shipping the cabinets.

Some downloadable (.PDF) instructions and a little time with a soldering gun would provide for some renewed "pride of ownership" in addition to the refined sound and updated looks as well.

A thread discussing this might provide some traction for those interested in upgrading their speakers and who feel confident in their abilities to perform the upgrade. As already mentioned, it could be quite costly and labor intensive depending on the model of speaker a person has.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1001:18 PM

I was reading over in the 'whats new' thread, and apparently the V3's bring some significant changes in sound performance, including newly designed tweets and crossovers. Looks like I'd have to do the whole shebang. My only concern is mating my new VP180 with my old V1 M80's...will combining two different versions negatively impact a 'seamless' sound stage? Not trying to be overly negative here, but it seems us older Axiom owners who purchase the VP180 are sort of forced into making a change whether for aesthetics, performance, or both...

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1001:32 PM

Originally Posted By: tomtuttle

My understanding is that the trade-up program is being replaced with the Axiom Auction program.

I am not sure that the auction program will be as beneficial financially to the current Axiom owners as the trade-up program offered by Axiom was. My M80s are only 5 months old so most of the components are the same as the V3s (so I was told) so if I have to loose $300/$400 just for the aluminum dust caps and the magnetic grills, I am not sure I would. Just my opinion.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1003:10 PM

Originally Posted By: bdpf

Originally Posted By: tomtuttle

My understanding is that the trade-up program is being replaced with the Axiom Auction program.

I am not sure that the auction program will be as beneficial financially to the current Axiom owners as the trade-up program offered by Axiom was. My M80s are only 5 months old so most of the components are the same as the V3s (so I was told) so if I have to loose $300/$400 just for the aluminum dust caps and the magnetic grills, I am not sure I would. Just my opinion.

There is no "all perfect" solution for anyone looking to sell used gear. In your case the trade-up program would probably be best.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:05 PM

I am new to the forum. Have had the M80's, VP-150, and EP-500 for a few months. Just tried to upgrade to the VP-180 and was told they are no longer taking trade-ups. So I guess I will have to stay with the 150.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:17 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:23 PM

Don't remember his name. But after thinking about it, I went back to the trade up page, entered the info again and it came up with the trade-up allowance, so I ordered online and already got a comfirmation on the order. So will see what happens.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1007:46 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1008:01 PM

I guess the guy I talked to was either giving out bad info or they are really going to stop the trade-up. I can imagine they are getting a lot of orders for the 180. But it seems my order went through so I will keep my fingers crossed. From what I have been reading here, it is definitely worth the upgrade.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/23/1008:20 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/24/1003:02 AM

Axiom is phasing out its trade-up program which will be replaced with other options to be introduced as part of the new website.

Axiom is not accepting trade-up from a VP150 to the VP180 anymore.

I hope this doesn’t mean that Axioms has stopped taking in VP150s as trade-ups for other speakers than the VP180.

After ruling out getting another subwoofer I finally narrowed it down to a pair of QS8s and a pair of M2s to trade in my VP150 made redundant a couple years ago when I bought another M80s to use as a center (didn’t know about the program then or maybe it wasn’t around yet).

I went ahead and placed the order but since I fat fingered my postal code I’ll have to call Axiom tomorrow to correct that and I can ask them directly so if their not taking the VP150s in at all I can cancel my order.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/24/1003:42 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/24/1004:58 PM

I got an email from Noreen today confirming that the my order would in fact be the newly updated V3 line of the M80 speakers to match the VP180V3 center I also ordered. it should ship next week. my account was charged today so that lets me know i'm one step closer to getting that tracking info and ultimately hearing that door bell ring! Yes, i'm very happy and really ready, can't wait!

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/24/1007:37 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/24/1007:37 PM

FYI, just spoke with Brent and the following will be available for purchase individually via the website in a couple of weeks. These are the current prices, but he said that they would be close for the new 'stuff'.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/25/1012:29 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/25/1012:38 PM

Originally Posted By: kmcalvano

FYI, just spoke with Brent and the following will be available for purchase individually via the website in a couple of weeks. These are the current prices, but he said that they would be close for the new 'stuff'.

tweets-$46eawoofers-$51eamids-$46eacross over-$152ea

Well, if you need to replace everything, it makes a gran total of $876 for a pair of M80s! At this price, you must as well buy the V3s! Even if you have all the V3s part and only care about the look of the all-aluminum, it's still $388 which is significant. I guess I'll just put the drivers with the black caps on the VP180, that way the only cost is the shipping. I would have rather had the all-al drivers though since in the future I'll be purchasing QS8s

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/25/1012:45 PM

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/29/1004:58 PM

i had been hearing all over this thread(and from axiom direct too) that the VP180 had as an option only, dual binding speaker post, yet here is a direct quote from the new Axiom newsletter i received today in my email:

"The VP180 weighs in at 56 pounds (26 kg) so sturdy support for this monster is mandatory. Dual custom aluminum stands are offered as a $240 option for the pair with shipping starting on July 15th. A magnetic grille and bi-wiring/bi-amping connections are standard."

the newsletter list this as a standard feature, so, for folks who have received their VP180 center already, did it come with two or four speaker binding post? Just curious is all so sound off.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/29/1005:04 PM

I believe Axiom asked those early purchasers if they wanted single or dual binding posts, but there would be a slight delay if they chose the duals(part supply?). It's my understanding that the early shipments therefore had the single posts(correct me if I'm wrong).

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/29/1005:12 PM

Hi solarrdad,

That's an error on my part. The biwiring/biamping dual sets of binding posts are an upgrade on the VP180. When I originally wrote this piece, I made an assumption that was incorrect and I missed it when I proofed the copy for the newsletter.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/29/1009:26 PM

Originally Posted By: alan

Hi solarrdad,

That's an error on my part. The biwiring/biamping dual sets of binding posts are an upgrade on the VP180. When I originally wrote this piece, I made an assumption that was incorrect and I missed it when I proofed the copy for the newsletter.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 06/30/1005:57 PM

just got my email that my order has shipped today. i'll check the tracking later tonight and tomorrow as nothing is showing up yet. i expect to have it early next week (i'm guessing of course) maybe Wednesday or Thursday (Monday is a holiday in the USA) of course i'll know once the FEDEX tracking system adjust in about a day. Axiom recommends waiting for 2 busines days before checking. i would imagine that for some folks depending on where you live it could be to your house inside of 2 days! no chance of that with me being in the USA in Virginia! of course i don't know how it was shipped, ground, third day or what. i'll get back to you all later once i get that date!

i'm so happy my 3 new addtions are on their way! and all V3 of course! This is the first time i've ever been able to start out at the top of the line, flagship in speakers of any brand, hell, actually anything, this is the top of the line and it feels good too!

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/02/1006:33 PM

Talk about torture; just got home from work, and was pleasantly surprised by a large M80 box(vp180 inside) setting in my foyer. I, unfortunately, have a BBQ to get to and will not have time to put it through the paces tonight $?&$@#!!!!

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/08/1009:16 PM

Originally Posted By: Pitbull24

Talk about torture; just got home from work, and was pleasantly surprised by a large M80 box(vp180 inside) setting in my foyer. I, unfortunately, have a BBQ to get to and will not have time to put it through the paces tonight $?&$@#!!!!

so, i've been waiting to hear from you about your experience with the new center, got anything yet? that must have been some BBQ!

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/09/1003:58 PM

Sorry for the delay, and sorry to hear about your delay as well. Believe it or not, I did hook it up last Saturday, but have had limited time this week to listen carefully. There was an immediate difference I noticed; I could not tell the center was even on it blended so well. Male voices seem more alive, and I am noticing more liveliness in content sent to the cc during movies. I auditioned my system yesterday for a fellow forum dweller, and played a little music for the first time. Equally impressive, however, most of the listening was done in two channel. I sat on my couch to the right of the main LP and immediately noticed wider dispersion from the 180. Now, I was not disappointed with the 150, but the 180 is definitely an improvement. I would also recommend QS8's. Have a great weekend.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/10/1008:31 PM

I am about to pull the trigger on a VP-180 along with picking up some one year old M80's. Since the new V3 M80'S just came out, should I be worried about the setup not having good balance? I thought about waiting for a little while longer and getting a new pair of M80's, but I would like the save about $500.00 going the used route.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/10/1008:43 PM

HTGEEK, before you buy the 80's i have a vp-180 that will be here on monday, i have M60's the older ti version, i can tell you if i here any difference between the v3 and the ti's.. right now i have a vp-150 ti.

from what others have said, they haven't had any bad experiences between the different versions.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/10/1011:34 PM

Originally Posted By: HTGEEK

I am about to pull the trigger on a VP-180 along with picking up some one year old M80's. Since the new V3 M80'S just came out, should I be worried about the setup not having good balance? I thought about waiting for a little while longer and getting a new pair of M80's, but I would like the save about $500.00 going the used route.

Currently I have a VP-150 and a pair of M60's...

i chose to wait and picked up the VP180v3 with a pair of M80v3 towers and tonight i picked up a pair of QS8 surround speakers. this way i don't have to worry about anything. i've essentially got a 5 channel matched set. i would recommend, if possible, wait and save that extra money and get the matching v3 towers. do you notice how many folks in this forum are kicking themselves for purchasing v2 knowing that the v3 was going to be released. also notice how many folks are interested in trading up from their v2 line to the v3 line to take advantage of the new center and have it match their M towers.

i know it's not easy but i recommend you wait. i did and i'm really happy that i did!

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/11/1012:04 AM

I run a new VP150 and QS4s, they say V2 but as new as they are I'm sure they are V3s, with some M80tis that are over 7 years old. IMO they match well enough I am not looking to up grade to the newer model.

You would do good getting the used M80s and the newer VP180, I assure you.

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/11/1007:37 AM

Originally Posted By: HTGEEK

I am about to pull the trigger on a VP-180 along with picking up some one year old M80's. Since the new V3 M80'S just came out, should I be worried about the setup not having good balance? I thought about waiting for a little while longer and getting a new pair of M80's, but I would like the save about $500.00 going the used route.

Currently I have a VP-150 and a pair of M60's...

Goo morning HTG,I can't speaker from experience but check out the June Axiom News letter, they have some comments on the M80 V3'sWUP

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/11/1009:52 AM

Now I am in a tough situation again...LOL I am normally the type that will get the latest and greatest. It just seems like a speaker that was built a year ago should go well with the VP-180. The guy selling the used M80 V2 is going to hold them for me until Monday. I would have already had them but I didn't have any room to take them with me on Friday.

I will be curious to see how the 180 matches up to some older M60's...

Re: VP180 - ATMOSPHERIC ANGST - 07/11/1006:57 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1003:23 PM

My Vp-180 just arrived, and like everyone else has said there is pretty much no comparison between the 180 and the 150.. Big thanks so SRoode for making this happen, i have been calling and asking brent for a larger center for about a year, but SRoode, put his money up, so the rest of us could enjoy a larger center as well..

as many know the new speakers have magnetic grills... i'm guessing Ian is of the go big or go home philosophy. the magnets are pretty damn big! With other manufactures the magnet grills are known to get "knocked off" .. I have some B&W speakers that have magnetic grills, and the magnets that B&W choose to go with are 1/2 the size of the axiom ones. the grills on the B&W's come off pretty easy, the axioms you have to work at a little bit. This was the first thing that impressed me about the new design was the grill, and the magnets...

here is a B&W magnet, the magnet is the inner part, it is inside of a metal housing.

now the axiom magnet.

i looked at the measurements for the vp-180 and the vp-150 to try and get an idea of the difference in the size of the 2 speakers... well you can not really appreciate the difference until you have a 150 sitting ontop of a 180...

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1004:14 PM

Thanks for the photos.

It really IS surprising to see how much deeper the VP180 is.... but to me, even MORE surprising that it doesn't look THAT much wider. That makes me think that I really could have a VP180 someday without it looking ridiculous in my room.

When it comes time to replace my 46" DLP, I'll go with something wall-mountable...likely a 52" or 55". Then I can lay a VP180 right across the top of the current A/V cabinet.

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1004:26 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1004:44 PM

my vp-180 is on top of the 60" rear projection TV... I moved the right m60 out of the way, put the 180 on the ep-600 then onto the TV, if your going to put it on top of a TV it would help having a second person...

Please pardon the home renovation project.

the vp180 has 2 DVD cases under the back feet right now, for 1" of rear elevation, i think im going to get some 1.5" wood to increase the angle slightly.

the 180 has feet screw holes on the bottom like the towers, for either the rubber feet that come with the speaker, or spikes if you choose to buy those. the 150 did not have any mounts for feet.

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1005:10 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1005:18 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1006:56 PM

I went to Ace and got some 2" 1/4 20 bolts, to get the angle correct, It would be nice i Axiom would include 2 longer bolts, for those of us who need to angle the center, i would imagine I'm not the only one.

Oh, and for those of you who haven't ordered one. you NEED to.... just do it, i promise you will not regret it. Now I am REALLY glad i did, and can not believe i was ever on the fence about getting one.

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1007:53 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/12/1008:07 PM

HTGEEK i tried to elude to it in my post, it will be fine, just get some long bolts.i would recommend 2 2" (1/4 20) thread bolts, with 4 nuts, and 4 washers. Thats what i used to get the angle correct. It kind of depends on where you are going to put your center? are you going to have it on top of a 5' TV like me? or a stand like Jake? the geometry of the vp-180 appears to be the same as the 150, so if your 150 upside down, with the angle side down and it works, then you should be able to put the 180 in the same orientation as the 150 and be fine. however, with the 180 having the treaded holes, you can use some bolts, to get a "more exact" angle like i needed to do.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1012:16 AM

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1012:33 AM

The first thing I threw at the V3s was Dire Straits "Brothers In Arms 20th Anniversary Edition Multi. Ch. SACD. Now I had the Oppo default to 2ch on SACDs but switched to the 5.1 ....Wow! Was all I could muster, it was so effin sweet sounding. Oh yeah, the Oppo now defaults to multi. channel. Be back in a few days I have some music to listen to!

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:20 AM

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:22 AM

One thing you'll want to do is set your center channel to 'large' and see how you like the bass coming out of the center. I would imagne you'll like it. I run my M80's set to large and don't notice any 'double-bass' problems others experience. Even though they aren't technically full range speakers, the M80's (and VP180 I would imagine) do a great job of reproducing bass IMO. You should at least try t out and see what you think.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:32 AM

Originally Posted By: Micah

One thing you'll want to do is set your center channel to 'large' and see how you like the bass coming out of the center. I would imagne you'll like it. I run my M80's set to large and don't notice any 'double-bass' problems others experience. Even though they aren't technically full range speakers, the M80's (and VP180 I would imagine) do a great job of reproducing bass IMO. You should at least try t out and see what you think.

So you set your speakers to "Large" along with using a subwoofer? I will try both options and see if I like one over the other.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:41 AM

Wow! That looks so good that I'm sure even Dr.House would have to reluctantly admit that maybe, just maybe, he overreacted when he commented about how the new dust caps were a big step backward.

Nope, not going to admit that. I still think they look silly, though it looks better than the photoshopped pictures that are displayed on the storefront which look horrible IMO. I still believe it is a step backwards, the magnetic grilles are a step forward.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1011:10 AM

I think the new drivers look great, as do the old ones.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1011:10 AM

Originally Posted By: Micah

One thing you'll want to do is set your center channel to 'large' and see how you like the bass coming out of the center. I would imagne you'll like it. I run my M80's set to large and don't notice any 'double-bass' problems others experience. Even though they aren't technically full range speakers, the M80's (and VP180 I would imagine) do a great job of reproducing bass IMO. You should at least try t out and see what you think.

The VP180 is indeed as impressive as the M80's when set to large.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1011:20 AM

Originally Posted By: Dr.House

I still believe it is a step backwards, the magnetic grilles are a step forward.

Well, I think the magnetic grilles are a bigger step forward than the Al caps are a step backwards, so they still end up at least slightly ahead

I have a 60 inch Kuro Elite, the stands' bracket to raise the Pio off the top shelf was not wide enough to fit the TVs' mounting holes, so it sits on the top shelf. It took some top frame and support post drilling, and I made some risers to raise the second shelf up an additional 2 inches.It worked out well.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:13 PM

I will have to check, but does Audyssey adjust the crossover during calibration?

Yes it does.

Well, to split hairs, the receiver sets the crossovers based on the information provided by Audyssey. The programming that sets the crossovers is, in your case, Denon's not Audyssey's.

After you have run Audyssey you should review the speaker settings that the AVR has set and consider changing any speakers that are set to large to small with a suitable crossover (40hz for the M80s & VP180?).

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:32 PM

Yes I am using Audyssey. That does make sense since I am dealing with all new front speakers.

I will have to check, but does Audyssey adjust the crossover during calibration?

Just to be clear. From everything I’ve ever read the receiver not Audyssey sets the crossover frequencies of your speakers. Audyssey then calculates it’s EQ curves based on what the receiver gives it to work with.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:39 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:43 PM

So there is Very mixed feelings about the Audyssey system? Sorry i don't have Audyssey so i only know what you guys have said.. does it work very well typically? i just set my L/R/C to large and then cross over the Qs8's at 40hz, not very technical i know, but i figure why not use the speakers built in crossovers?

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:47 PM

The speakers only cross between their own drivers. The upper and lower end are unbounded. The sub-woofer crossover stops the lowest frequencies from reaching the main speakers and sends it to the sub-woofer instead.

Have you tried 80 Hz all around? 40 Hz is pretty low for the QSs, you're likely missing some bass content that the surrounds are trying to play, and the sub isn't picking up.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:47 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1003:57 PM

Originally Posted By: grunt

Just to be clear. From everything I’ve ever read the receiver not Audyssey sets the crossover frequencies of your speakers. Audyssey then calculates it’s EQ curves based on what the receiver gives it to work with.

From the Audyssey site: "Audyssey doesn't set crossovers in any product. It finds the low frequency roll off point of your speakers and reports that to the AVR. Every manufacturer uses that information differently."

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1006:39 PM

Ok, my front soundstage is now complete. i received the correct VP180v3 speaker with dual pair of speaker binding post to match up to my existing Calabrine cables bi-wire cable (the towers are also bi-wired with the same type & brand) keep in mind that the speakers are identical in size and weight. it took a couple of measurments, try's but i finally got it right. i even have it set with about a 12 degree pitch up towards the listening area which made all the difference since i had it lower than the previous polk CSi5 center.

i created a bracket out of a shelf bracket system vertical support section with a couple of small L, some self tapping screws and some 8/32 machine screws. I also used the isolating rubber feet that came with the speaker. i mounted them to the support bar so as to not damage the finish of the speaker in any way.

i mounted them with 1 1/4" 8/32 machined screws with nuts on the underside. on the back of the stand i used two 3" brackets and mounted on of the footers on each of those for support. i also mounted the 3" brackets about an inch lower than the bar in order to get the pitch i mentioned towards the listeners head (more like the upper chest to head) it worked out great. once in place everything fit perfectly and on either side of the speaker to the inside wall of the stand i was left with a total of 1/4". as i have said before, i was meant to have this speaker! i did a test to make sure the speaker works and that i didn't blow anything up (old nervious electrician! ;)) i turned everything on, and no faults in my XPA-5, so, i put on John Mayer: SACD/DSD "Heavier Things" and it sounded incredible, that center made it's presence known! the soundstage became one really big, really wide speaker, seamless in it's transitions across the soundstage; yet, seperation when it was meant to be seperate! i also gave a listen to Tom Petty blu-ray "Mojo" in 5.1 and again, it was incredible. very well done, very powerfull at times from the front stage.

my family was very happy to see the speaker. my girlfriend who usually doesn't have anything much to say about the HT came to me and said "you know you were right about it being meant for you to have that speaker, it just made it in there" and she was right.

ok, here are some pictures. we are going to watch "Percy Jackson & the Olympains" on blu to celebrate the front 3. I'll give you my views on the impact of the front soundstage later tonight. and Friday, i am expecting to have my QS8 surrounds arrive and you know what that means, "box porn" and reviews.

later this weekend, or early next week, i'll update the gallery to reflect the new additions. i've waited until they are all in place and tested before i update the gallery. i'll also let you know how the amp is handling the new 4 ohm fronts and the 6 ohm surrounds (when they arrive) since all it's ever know is 8 ohm loads.

here is a broad shot of the stand and the metal bracket i mentioned earlier with the isolation supports installed. as well as the back brackets.

here is a closeup of the main support bar. good steel, glossy black supported by the end "L" brackets and see those rubber things, yes those would be the feet that would be used on the bottom of the speakers if you placed them on a wood floor.

here is the closeup of the L brackets in the rear with their isolation supports on. all the isolation feet are installed in the same direction (manner) as if they were being bolted to the bottom of the speaker as they were meant to be.

and the center is now in it's final resting place. resting comfortably on 6 isolation footers and loving life. look at the sides of the stand next to the ends of the center, about 1/8" on each side! the beauty is that you can't even see the steel bracket supporting the speaker, you'd have to lay down on the floor to see it; this worked out better than i thought, the center just appears to float! well, we are going to have some McDonalds and watch the movie, i'll give a review on how it holds up to the movie. i will say that the bass is out of the center is incredible. all 3 fronts are at 50hz @75db SPL from the trusty iPhone.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1008:14 PM

Originally Posted By: solarrdadd

Ok, my front soundstage is now complete. i received the correct VP180v3 speaker with dual pair of speaker binding post to match up to my existing Calabrine cables bi-wire cable (the towers are also bi-wired with the same type & brand) keep in mind that the speakers are identical in size and weight. it took a couple of measurments, try's but i finally got it right. i even have it set with about a 12 degree pitch up towards the listening area which made all the difference since i had it lower than the previous polk CSi5 center.

i created a bracket out of a shelf bracket system vertical support section with a couple of small L, some self tapping screws and some 8/32 machine screws. I also used the isolating rubber feet that came with the speaker. i mounted them to the support bar so as to not damage the finish of the speaker in any way.

i mounted them with 1 1/4" 8/32 machined screws with nuts on the underside. on the back of the stand i used two 3" brackets and mounted on of the footers on each of those for support. i also mounted the 3" brackets about an inch lower than the bar in order to get the pitch i mentioned towards the listeners head (more like the upper chest to head) it worked out great. once in place everything fit perfectly and on either side of the speaker to the inside wall of the stand i was left with a total of 1/4". as i have said before, i was meant to have this speaker! i did a test to make sure the speaker works and that i didn't blow anything up (old nervious electrician! ;)) i turned everything on, and no faults in my XPA-5, so, i put on John Mayer: SACD/DSD "Heavier Things" and it sounded incredible, that center made it's presence known! the soundstage became one really big, really wide speaker, seamless in it's transitions across the soundstage; yet, seperation when it was meant to be seperate! i also gave a listen to Tom Petty blu-ray "Mojo" in 5.1 and again, it was incredible. very well done, very powerfull at times from the front stage.

my family was very happy to see the speaker. my girlfriend who usually doesn't have anything much to say about the HT came to me and said "you know you were right about it being meant for you to have that speaker, it just made it in there" and she was right.

ok, here are some pictures. we are going to watch "Percy Jackson & the Olympains" on blu to celebrate the front 3. I'll give you my views on the impact of the front soundstage later tonight. and Friday, i am expecting to have my QS8 surrounds arrive and you know what that means, "box porn" and reviews.

later this weekend, or early next week, i'll update the gallery to reflect the new additions. i've waited until they are all in place and tested before i update the gallery. i'll also let you know how the amp is handling the new 4 ohm fronts and the 6 ohm surrounds (when they arrive) since all it's ever know is 8 ohm loads.

here is a broad shot of the stand and the metal bracket i mentioned earlier with the isolation supports installed. as well as the back brackets.

here is a closeup of the main support bar. good steel, glossy black supported by the end "L" brackets and see those rubber things, yes those would be the feet that would be used on the bottom of the speakers if you placed them on a wood floor.

here is the closeup of the L brackets in the rear with their isolation supports on. all the isolation feet are installed in the same direction (manner) as if they were being bolted to the bottom of the speaker as they were meant to be.

and the center is now in it's final resting place. resting comfortably on 6 isolation footers and loving life. look at the sides of the stand next to the ends of the center, about 1/8" on each side! the beauty is that you can't even see the steel bracket supporting the speaker, you'd have to lay down on the floor to see it; this worked out better than i thought, the center just appears to float! well, we are going to have some McDonalds and watch the movie, i'll give a review on how it holds up to the movie. i will say that the bass is out of the center is incredible. all 3 fronts are at 50hz @75db SPL from the trusty iPhone.

later...;)

Wow that's an awesome looking setup...the VP-180 really is a perfect fit...I'm sure it will sound as great as it looks!!!

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1008:37 PM

When I had an Outlaw ICBM they suggested to round up the -3db point, with the M80s that would be 40HZ, then add 10 to it. So as Outlaw recommends 50HZ would be the ideal crossover point for the M80s, set to small.

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:22 PM

What are the recommended crossover settings for the M80's and VP-180? Should they be set at "small" or "large"

As long as you have a sub which can play lower than your speakers, they can be set to small. The -3 dB point is where it is recommended to set the crossover.

The M80s and VP180 are both down 3 dB at 34 Hz, so what ever crossover point is above that would be good. Probably 40 Hz if you have it.

Pardon my ignorance but wouldn't setting the crossover to 40Hz or playing music without a sub sound very similar? I thought that most music wouldn't have much below 40Hz so not much would go to the sub anyways? Am I wrong?

Re: VP180 - 07/13/1010:30 PM

Bruno, that's about it: there's very little below 40Hz in most music(my pipe organ CDs are among the exceptions), so the sub would have little to do. Regardless of the low end extension of the mains, my view is to set the crossover to a good sub at higher than 40Hz.

Re: VP180 - 07/14/1012:07 AM

my QS8 surrounds will be here Thursday. then my speaker upgrade is complete. 5 speakers, M80, VP180 & QS8 all in the V3 flavor!i'll keep you all posted when they arrive. i'll probably post in a QS8 thread i saw.

well, Tuesday night to celebrate and "break it in" (the new center) we watched Percy Jackson and it was truly incredible. the front soundstage is like i've never heard it before and it's only set at 50hz (i'm gonna give 40hz a try tomorrow, though 50hz was quite impressive ) for the front 3 and they are thunderous! these are truely special speakers and if you've got the power they will take it and turn that power into brilliant, spacious sound with true purpose. when the minatour comes after Percy or the Hydra attacks and screams and stomps it was like really being in the movies for us for the first time and we didn't have it turned up loud either, in fact it was at the lower end of where we tend to watch movies. i watch them at (volume) 55 or 60 (mostly closer to 60) but for Percy it was at 55 but it almost sounded like it was at 65! i was really impressed and happy to see that my money was spent on such a good investment. i am sure i can get rid of my boxes in about another week, i have no doubt that these speakers will stand the test of time with their build quality and i am also certain that i want to keep them!

Re: VP180 - 07/14/1009:42 AM

Re: VP180 - 07/14/1009:55 AM

I agree with John.

You don't want your sub doing just the lowest frequencies that your mains can't do. A good sub is much more efficient and better designed to handle all the broader LFE range so you want to remove the task from your mains and let them concentrate on what they do best, some low bass likely but mostly all the midrange and highs.

It's the perfect blend you are looking for, not a hard cutoff. 80 Hz is kind of the defacto standard for people who don't want to tweak. That's where bass starts to become non-directional and also, as mentioned, a crossover is not necessarily a hard cutoff (snips off everything below or 80 or whatever N it's set for.) It is where it begins more of a rolling off of the lower frequencies to the sub. Some of the frequencies just below 80 or N will still get sent to your mains in order to keep things blending nicely but it will start to roll off fairly steeply after N.

Re: VP180 - 07/14/1012:39 PM

Crossovers in AVRs are a gradual slope, typically 24dB per octave lowpass for the subwoofer and 12dB highpass for the rest of the speakers and the frequency chosen is the -3db point. So an 80Hz crossover will be 15dB down at 40Hz.

Re: VP180 - 07/15/1011:59 AM

Come on guys 83 pages and not one full review of this new speaker, I'm slowly getting sucked in, but I'll have to build a rack and will probably wait until they hit the outlet. That's what I get for popping back onto the boards.

Posted by: Anonymous

Re: VP180 - 07/15/1012:07 PM

Any review will more than likely be posted in the VP180 First Impressions thread first.

Re: VP180 - 07/15/1012:29 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1009:23 PM

I started a thread on some basic settings for the VP-180 matched with the M80's. What does everybody have their Db levels set?

When I ran Audyssey, it had my fronts set at -4.5 but I ended up changing them to 0.5 before I was okay with the sound. Actually I increased all the settings by at least 10db. The crossovers are set at 40 for the front three.

In comparison when I had a VP-150/M60 setup, My fronts were set at 60hz and the db levels were +3.5. Is that normal for it to be lower??

I feel like I am asking a ton of questions, but I just want to make sure I am setting everything up the best I can.

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1009:40 PM

You should leave the speaker levels where the receiver set them if you want the calibration of your volume control to be correct and also if you are using Dynamic EQ.Your new speakers are more efficient so it would make sense that the set up program would set them lower.

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1009:52 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1010:00 PM

You should leave the speaker trims where the receiver sets them. That's the receiver's way of making sure each channel plays at the same level when fed the same signal. The basis is also on the -0 dB setting on the master volume control. The -4.5 dB means that the receiver needs to trim four and a half dB from the output of that channel when the main volume is set to -0 dB to get that speaker to play at "reference" level.

If you had to turn all the trims up 10 dB to get it to sound like you wanted, you should have just turned the master volume control up 10 dB. That does the same thing (on any modern receiver).

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1010:14 PM

Based on what other people have posted in my other thread, I might have an issue with my center channel, since it set the crossover at 200hz. I wrote down the settings that the intial Audyssey calibration gave me, so I will put them back to that level and try turning up the receiver.

My speakers are set at small and the front three speakers are still at 40hz.

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1010:24 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/17/1010:58 PM

Thanks for the information. I have learned quite a bit tonight about all the different settings and what they do. Unfortunately I just made a discovery, with the help of a fellow forum member, that one of my new M80's has two blown woofers... They are only a year old, but I bought them used so I don't have a warranty on them. Not the way I wanted to spend this evening..:(

Re: VP180 - 07/18/1012:26 AM

Like has been mentioned in your other thread it’s likely wires or the crossover. Usually tweeters are the first thing to blow on a speaker not to say it couldn’t happen to the woofers but given the power handling capability of Axiom’s midrange and woofer drivers I doubt it.

Re: VP180 - 07/19/1001:25 PM

Just a quick update on the situation I have been having with M80's...

I spoke with JC this morning and we tried two more things. It has been determined that my issue is most likely the crossover in one of the speakers. JC had me swtich out the woofers and the woofer from the bad speaker worked in the other one.

He is supposed to get back to me later on today.

I will also say that I watched my first movie last night on the updated system. It was a HD movie with a Dolby Digital soundtrack recorded off of ABC-HD. Surprisingly it sounded pretty darn good. Normally when I watch movies on Directv that are in HD, the sound isn't that good and I have to crank the volume up... So even with two non-working woofers in one of the front speakers, the new center and fronts did a great job. My fiance even noticed the increased sound and bass from the center..:)

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1007:33 AM

Picked up my VP180 from Puralator last night. I did not receive any e-mail saying it was being sent so it was a bit of a shock. I ran into a few problems last night with changing my set up and hope to have everything all sorted out tonight. I will post a couple of pics when I get the chance.Mel

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1008:07 AM

Originally Posted By: onn

Picked up my VP180 from Puralator last night. I did not receive any e-mail saying it was being sent so it was a bit of a shock. I ran into a few problems last night with changing my set up and hope to have everything all sorted out tonight. I will post a couple of pics when I get the chance.Mel

You sure have one hell of a system there , you will definitely love the 180.

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1007:04 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1007:06 PM

Hmm. I want to double check this with Ian--when we asked him about that, I'm pretty sure he said you could. Of course, this is before the design was finalized, so something definitely could have changed.

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1007:17 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/22/1007:30 PM

I would just attach a couple of wooden bars to the existing inserts(sticking out past the edge of the cabinet) and attach your ceiling mounted chains to the bars on the underside of the speaker. That's how Al Borland would do it.

Re: VP180 - 07/24/1011:59 AM

Re: VP180 - 07/24/1012:05 PM

I wish I could but I really don't have to time to get a good listen at the moment. I'm trying to get the time right now to post my "final setup" in the gallery which will probably take me a few hours. Taking pics of this finish is a PITA. I'm not an audiopile like most of you but I will say from the little amount of listening I have done, I have noticed quite a difference in my front soundstage not having a sight gap it had before.

Re: VP180 - 07/24/1002:51 PM

Re: VP180 - 07/24/1005:29 PM

Originally Posted By: MarkSJohnson

Mel, if it's not too much to ask:

Can you pack up your system and bring it all to Dwight in September for us to see?

Thanks, Bud...that's awesome of you!

No problem Mark I'll get right on that. Do you think the airline would mind if I strapped each speaker into it's own seat? Can't trust the cargo hold you know. I'm sure there will be some speakers like mine at the Axiom plant though (maybe).

Re: VP180 - 07/27/1010:09 AM

Re: VP180 - 07/27/1012:35 PM

Originally Posted By: Micah

Perhaps I missed it if you already mentioned it but... did you request the blacked out dust caps or something?

When someone had posted a pic of their 180 and I saw that the caps were not black I called Axiom and made sure that I got the black caps. Since I knew I would be waiting longer for my speaker because of the finish I knew it wouldn't be a problem. I was more worried that they would forget that I had asked for the black caps.

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1001:24 PM

I didn't even get a chance to write "I received THE email" before they arrived (18 hrs from shipment to arrival)! I still have to give them (VP180, 2 - M80v.3's) the once-over to make sure Purolator's tradtional handling hasn't caused any damage and set them up (they were sent to my dad's place - the homes of retired parents are great for sending courier shipments) but here's a pic of the monolithic trio and my dog, Penelope, the border collie mix (for a size reference).

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1001:57 PM

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1003:44 PM

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1006:07 PM

Sweet! I'm next. Just ordered the VP180. M22 - for height speakers - and Denon A100/4311 is next! And how did I manage the VP180 approval from my SWMBO? I fixed the dryer (thank you, Internet!). After fixing it, I mentioned..."you know, I just saved us $1500....how about I get that speaker I wanted?" I have to admit, it was well played!

A while back, I asked about using the M80 horizontally, so I made a full circle!

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1008:35 PM

I would like to raise the front of my VP180 a bit so it points slightly more up. Would you guys think it would be OK to untwist the front rubber feet in order to achieve this or will this create to much force on the thread?

Re: VP180 - 10/15/1008:56 PM

Originally Posted By: bdpf

I would like to raise the front of my VP180 a bit so it points slightly more up. Would you guys think it would be OK to untwist the front rubber feet in order to achieve this or will this create to much force on the thread?

Re: VP180 - 10/16/1003:31 PM

Re: VP180 - 10/16/1005:15 PM

Re: VP180 - 10/16/1005:23 PM

Originally Posted By: bdpf

So I guess simply untwisting the rubber feet to raise the front a bit won't work?

Hi bdpf, Untwisting the rubber feet is not a solution and should be avoided. Doing so will push the metal insert inside the enclosure; the rubber surface of the rubber foot needs to be in full contact with the enclosure.

The VP180 has a flat side (usually used as the bottom one) and its opposite side usually the top one) is angled. You can set the VP180 on its angled side to be used as the bottom one. Doing so will direct its output upwards. You can use the rubber feet to decouple it from its resting surface if you wish. Hockey pucks are also a perfect alternative and might even work better for Canadians and hockey fans.

Re: VP180 - 10/16/1005:44 PM

Couldn't you use a spacer of sorts in between the foot and the cabinet so ie it's no different than if it were normally mounted? as long as you have sufficient thread engagement(at least 1 1/2 times or greater than the diameter of the thread), I think you'd be ok.